[MLIT] Ministerial Instructions on New Initiatives Regarding Accessibility

On June 11th, 2021, the Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, Mr. Akaba, instructed all bureaus under the Ministry to take the following four new measures, with the aim of ensuring that all people, regardless of their disabilities or other characteristics, can use public transport in an equally convenient and safe manner.

[1] Introduction of IC cards for people with disabilities

[2] Introduction of free spaces for wheelchairs on limited express trains

[3] Implementation of web-based reservation and payment for tickets (including linkage with Myna Portal)

[4] Promotion of the introduction of discounts for people with mental disabilities

* Regarding [1] and [2], related studies and preparations will be accelerated to achieve the goals as soon as possible. (In the Kanto region, the system will be introduced within the year 2022).

*Regarding [3] and [4], the specific direction and target of the initiatives should be determined and studies aiming at their realization should commence as soon as possible.

These four initiatives have been continuously requested by disabled people's organizations for a long time, but have not progressed due to technical problems, etc. This time, under the strong leadership of the government, all parties involved will work together through public-private partnerships to achieve the goals. For more information, please visit the following website (Japanese only).

https://www.mlit.go.jp/report/press/sogo09_hh_000298.html

menu