Montevideo to Launch First 'Accessible Taxis' Amid Criticism Over Standards

The Intendencia de Montevideo (IMM) is set to introduce its first batch of 25 "accessible taxis," equipped with features designed to assist passengers with disabilities, particularly wheelchair users. These vehicles, already in operation since July, include electromecanical ramps and retractable anchors, ensuring enhanced safety and ease of use. Óscar Dourado, president of the Gremial Única del Taxi, described the service as unique globally, emphasizing the automated ramps that require no human effort.

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Today we can count on a unique service in the world. The accessibility ramps are electromechanical, without human effort, and provide security to the citizen who needs it.

Looking ahead, the IMM plans a second tender later this year to introduce an additional 20 accessible taxis. These new vehicles are expected to be larger and better suited to address various accessibility requirements, responding to feedback received. This initiative aims to expand the availability of accessible transportation within the city.

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They are not accessible.

However, the launch is accompanied by criticism regarding the accessibility standards. Nationalist councilman Nicolás Botana has voiced concerns, echoing previous complaints, that the newly introduced taxis may not be suitable for all wheelchair users. He argues that the dimensions do not meet international accessibility standards or guidelines set by the Uruguayan Institute of Technical Standards (UNIT), which specifies requirements for space, length, and height.

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It is not good to make a launch that generates expectations in a population that has been demanding this service for years. We will continue to insist that a second tender be carried out that requires vehicles with the correct measurements and without additional costs.

Botana is advocating for a second tender that mandates vehicles with correct dimensions and avoids additional costs, ensuring true universal accessibility. He points out that previous tenders faced issues, including one in 2023 that was left vacant due to a lack of bidders. While the current tender was awarded, the IMM acknowledges the shortcomings and is committed to improving standards in the upcoming second phase, recognizing that wheelchair sizes vary significantly.

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There are people who are against everything and for nothing.