ČD to introduce modernised accessible carriages for EuroCity Trains and Fast Trains
The interiors of the modernised carriages are divided into several parts which include four classic six-seat compartments, one 12-seat open compartment, boarding areas with a platform lift for passengers using wheelchairs, an accessible WC, a special compartment for wheelchairs and a service compartment. In one of the boarding areas, there are racks for six bicycles.
The carriages are equipped with modern, textile-upholstered seats.In selected seats, there are newly designed tables suitable for working or for table-top games, as well as 230V 50Hz electrical outlets for charging passengers’ small electronic devices, e.g. mobile telephones and laptops.Air-conditioning contributes to comfortable travel, especially during the summer, and passengers are informed about the course of the journey by means of an audio-visual information system.
A total of 64 carriages are slated for modernisation,and will be put into operation gradually from this autumn through 2014. The overall cost of the modernisations will reach CZK 1.5 billion, and the carriages will be put into operation on all types of long-distance connections starting with EuroCity trains and followed by express trains and inland fast trains.
ČD is removing barriers
In recent years, ČD has introduced many accessible trains.These include low-platform regional trains as well as carriages equipped with a boarding platform or otherwise modified to accommodate passengers using wheelchairs.At present, ČD operates almost 500 accessible carriages and trains, and offers accessible travel on more than 3,000 long-distance and regional connections.