Introducing App-Enabled Smart Transport System Enhancements for the Visually Impaired in Bucharest
In a significant step towards inclusivity, Bucharest's interim mayor, Stelian Bujduveanu, has announced the implementation of a new public transport accessibility system designed specifically for visually impaired passengers. The system, known as Step Hear, is part of a broader commitment to modernize and make the capital more inclusive.
The Step Hear system, launched on July 5, 2025, is supported by Societatea de Transport București (STB) and the Romanian Association of the Blind. The initiative, which is currently in a pilot phase on lines 90 and 104, uses a dedicated mobile app and devices installed in vehicles and stations to provide real-time audio guidance and notifications for visually impaired users.
Key features of the system include step-by-step directions to stations, audible signals at vehicle doors to aid boarding, and continuous updates on the journey with alerts for upcoming stops and disembarking points. Perhaps most notably, drivers are pre-notified when a visually impaired passenger is waiting, enabling them to provide assistance proactively.
According to Daniel Istrate, General Director of STB, the system offers real independence to visually impaired passengers, enhancing their safety, independence, and accessibility. He believes that the system bridges the real needs of the community with cutting-edge technology.
If the pilot phase proves successful, the system will be extended to other public transport routes throughout the city, potentially improving the lives of a significant number of visually impaired individuals in Bucharest. Approximately 6,000 visually impaired people in Bucharest are expected to benefit from the new accessibility system.
The implementation of the Step Hear system in Bucharest is a demonstration of the city's commitment to addressing the needs of its visually impaired residents. Stelian Bujduveanu considers the solution a significant step towards creating a more accessible and inclusive public transportation system, setting an example for other cities to follow.
[1] Bucharest News, "Bucharest Introduces Innovative Public Transport System for Visually Impaired Passengers," July 5, 2025. [2] Romanian Association of the Blind, "Step Hear: A Revolutionary Solution for Visually Impaired Passengers in Bucharest," Press Release, July 5, 2025.
The Step Hear system, a revolutionary solution developed for visually impaired passengers, integrates technology into general-news headlines, bridging the gap between community needs and innovation. As the system offers independence and improved accessibility, it could potentially revolutionize the lifestyle of thousands of visually impaired residents, showcasing Bucharest's commitment to inclusivity in sports and beyond.
