Transport poverty creates social inequality in Catalonia

Transport poverty is emerging as a significant factor of social and economic vulnerability in Catalonia. This phenomenon occurs when individuals face restricted mobility due to insufficient, inaccessible, or unaffordable public or private transport options.

Key affected demographics include residents of rural areas, individuals with low incomes, people with reduced mobility, women, and migrants. The concept is defined by three main dimensions: availability (the existence and frequency of service), accessibility (the ability to reach necessary destinations), and affordability (the cost of the service).

Experts from organizations such as Promoció del Transport Públic (PTP) and Ecoserveis note that even individuals with identical income levels experience different qualities of life based on their location's transport infrastructure. Reliability is also a critical factor; for instance, frequent delays in the Rodalies railway network have forced passengers to seek alternative means of travel. There are indications that the State is working toward a national strategy to address transport poverty.