7th International Conference on Civil Engineering for Sustainable Development (ICCESD 2024), Bangladesh

ASSESSING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF INCLUSIVE BUS TERMINAL DESIGN IN

MEETING THE NEEDS OF PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED PEOPLE: IN THE
CONTEXT OF KHULNA

P.S. Anik*1, M.S.R. Shovon 2 and A. Rahman 3

1
B.Arch. Student, Khulna University of Engineering and Technology, Khulna, Bangladesh, e-mail:
[email protected]
2
B.Arch. Student, Khulna University of Engineering and Technology, Khulna, Bangladesh, e-mail:
[email protected]
3
B.Arch. Student, Khulna University of Engineering and Technology, Khulna, Bangladesh, e-mail:
[email protected]
*Corresponding Author

ABSTRACT
Bangladesh is a rapidly growing country, with an estimated 16 million people with disabilities or
10% of the country's population. Public transport plays a crucial role in the lives of physically
challenged people who rely on buses for commuting, accessibility, and socializing. However, the
country's bus terminals often lack the necessary infrastructure and services to cater to the needs of
these people. Basically, they face problems like Lack of accessibility, Inadequate seating, Poor
lighting, Insufficient signage, Limited toilet facilities, Security concerns. The purpose of this research
paper is to investigate and analyze the current state of bus terminals and their accessibility for
physically challenged people, and to propose recommendations for designing and implementing an
inclusive bus terminal that meets their unique needs. This research paper utilized a survey-based
methodology to investigate the current state of bus terminal design for disabled people. A survey
instrument was developed and distributed to a sample of passengers to gather data on their
experiences and preferences for bus terminal design. Based on the research findings, the paper
proposes recommendations for creating more inclusive bus terminals for physically challenged
people, including the integration of universal design principles, collaboration between designers and
user groups. This includes the need for features such as ramps, elevators, slip-resistant flooring, and
ample seating to reduce the risk of falls and improve mobility. In addition, clear signage, wayfinding,
and staff training are essential to providing assistance and support to older passengers and enhancing
their overall experience.

Keywords: Inclusive design, Bus terminal, Accessibility, Physically Challenged people.

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1. INTRODUCTION
Public transportation is pivotal in connecting individuals to their communities, workplaces, and
essential services. It is a lifeline for countless individuals, fostering social inclusion and economic
opportunities. However, the public transit experience can be fraught with barriers and difficulties for
people with physical challenges. Many physically challenged people are restricted from moving freely
due to the ineffective accessibility in public transportation terminals. A key impediment to the full
involvement of people with disabilities in society, according to research, is the built environment's
lack of accessibility (Seyed et al., 2012). Creating an inclusive and accessible transportation system is
not only a matter of equality and social justice. However, it is also essential for a diverse society's
overall well-being and productivity. The pursuit of a universally accessible public transportation
system is not only a matter of societal equity but also a fundamental human right. The importance of
inclusivity in ensuring full societal participation for all is emphasised in the United Nations
Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), which makes the principle of equal
access to public transit a fundamental Tenet. Insofar as physically challenged individuals are
concerned, numerous bus terminals continue to be substandard in design, relegating them to the
periphery of our collective mobility in spite of these international agreements and a growing
awareness of the significance of accessibility. Even if there are modern technology facilities available,
not everyone can utilize them because of the limited accessibility for those who have impairments
such as wheelchair users’ vision and hearing impairments (Lee et al., 2019). Disabled persons are
unique and have a disadvantage while using facilities in metropolitan areas; it is urgent to address the
fact that they do not receive the same treatment as other people. So, improvements must be made to
infrastructure, information, and vehicles (such as buses and trains) in order to make public
transportation more accessible for individuals with disabilities (Lee et al., 2019). In general, most
physically challenged persons experience formidable obstacles to mobility, including structural,
social, and psychological obstacles. When it comes to transportation, structural barriers have a
significant role in how mobile persons with physical disabilities are. There is a need to ensure
everyone's convenience as many transportation hubs still need the amenities and infrastructure
necessary to function correctly. The pedestrian environment may be their first obstacle when
physically challenged people travel. The people with disabilities main issues include an inadequate
supply of paved roads and uneven terrain. It makes people with disabilities more prone to injuries. In
addition, the dangers were not adequately disclosed or warned of, and improper parking of vehicles
affects pedestrian safety and accessibility (Lee et al., 2019). The absence of toilets, seating provisions,
ramps, or elevators for physically challenged people is another design barrier that affects their
accessibility. Again, if these elements are present, sometimes the dimensions or positions of these
elements are not appropriate for people with physical disabilities. This research seeks to embark on a
thorough exploration of the matter, focusing on a multifaceted approach encompassing architectural
and infrastructural assessments, the integration of advanced technologies, policy, and regulatory
analysis, as well as a comprehensive examination of the real-life experiences of individuals with
physical disabilities in Khulna Bus Terminal. By conducting this inquiry, our objective is to:

• Identify and highlight accessibility in approaching the spaces in the Khulna Bus terminal.
• Evaluate the interior infrastructure that affects disabled accessibilities in the bus terminal
• Advocate for establishing universally designed and accessible bus terminals, promoting a society
where the ability to move freely is a universal right.
• Suggest recommendations for improving accessibility in the bus terminals for people with
disabilities.

Throughout this research, we will explore a multifaceted approach, encompassing the assessment of
architectural and infrastructural features, technology integration, policy and regulatory aspects, and
the lived experiences of individuals with physical challenges. Our investigation seeks to reveal the
gaps in the current system and propose innovative solutions to make bus terminals accommodating for
everyone, irrespective of their physical capabilities.

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2. LITERATURE REVIEW
The importance of accessibility in creating a premium, effective, and sustainable transportation
network is becoming widely acknowledged. Facilitating greater accessibility to buses, trams, trains,
planes, and ships is vital for all of us as transit users. It is essential to consider many elements that
offer a thorough picture of the complete route cycle when assessing accessibility in public
transportation terminals for people with impairments. People with disabilities benefit from this
approach not just in terms of general accessibility but also in terms of identifying obstacles they must
overcome (Seyed Hassan Khalifeh Soltani, 2012).

Figure 1: Journey cycle in a bus terminal (Highways, 2022)

Accessibility is greatly influenced by transportation infrastructure, which is evident from the moment
someone leaves their house. Many developing nations have inadequate infrastructure and constructed
environments, which create significant obstacles for disabled people who want to move
independently. In many cases, these places' road networks do not need more paths, and the existing
ones are usually in bad shape and filled with different obstructions. These include street sellers,
rubbish, parked autos, and ornamental buildings. The problem is further exacerbated by the lack of
ramps and other crucial accessibility components, which makes it difficult for people with
disabilities—especially those who use wheelchairs and walking aids—to move (SAJIB, 2022).

Table 1: Accessibility Guidelines for Bus Terminals and Bus Stops (Highways, 2022)
Source: Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, India
Wheelchair Users
Design Attributes Dimension Drawings

Width-350mm
Counter Top
Height-700mm

The minimum clear floor

Width-900mm
or ground area
Length-1200mm
The minimum clear floor ground
Dia-1500 mm
area for a wheelchair to turn

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Wheelchair Reach

Minimum Width of 900 mm

Entry/Exit door

Height of Door Handle 900-1000 mm

Minimum front
approach doorway
space 1200 mm
Crutch Users
Minimum Door Width 900 mm

Minimum Passageway
920 mm
Width

White Cane Users

Radial Range Width- 1200 mm

Tactile flooring tiles 300*300 mm

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Tactile Flooring

Service Areas
Stairs Width- 1500 mm(min)

Riser- 150 mm(max)

Tread- 300 mm(min)

Ramps Slope 1:12 (min)

1: 20 (max)

Width- 1500 mm (min)

Elevators Length- 1500 mm (min)

Width- 1500 mm (min)

Door Width- 900 mm

(min)

Call button height- 800-

1000 mm (min)

Pedestrian Minimum Width- 1200

Walkway mm (One way)

Minimum Width-1800
mm (Two way)
(Preferable)

Height – 150 mm (From

road level)

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Drinking water Clear floor space-

fountain 900*1200 mm

Clear knee space-

deep 200 mm
height 680 mm

Toilet Floor Area-

2200*2000 mm

Clear manoeuvring
space- 1500 mm
diameter

All fixture clear

space- 900*1200 mm

Seating Seat height

450-475 mm

Clear floor space

900*1200 mm

According to BNBC 2020, All public transport terminals, including bus stops and railway stations,
shall be accessible to persons with disabilities. The waiting areas of all such facilities shall be
provided with seats for such persons who are unable to stand for long periods. Moreover, in BNBC,
there are also some guidelines.

Table 2: Accessibility Guidelines for Public Transport Terminals in Bangladesh

Source: BNBC 2020
Design Attributes Dimensions
Minimum floor Area for wheelchair users 900*1200 mm
Minimum turning diameter for wheelchair 1500 mm
Minimum accessible route 1200 mm
Minimum width for wheelchair Crossing 1800 mm
Minimum clearance for headroom of walkways, halls, 2000 mm
corridors, passageways or aisles
Ramp slope for 0-75 mm height 1:8
Ramp slope for 76-150 mm height 1:10
Ramp slope for more than 150 mm height 1:12
Minimum unobstructed width of pedestrian walkways 1200 mm
Pedestrian walkways with obstacles 1500 mm
Minimum door width 900 mm
Door handle height 900-1100 mm
Minimum unobstructed space at doorway 1200*1200 mm
Counter Top dimension 900 mm wide
480 mm deep
700 mm high

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Minimum toilet Dimension 1500*1750 mm

Minimum WC height 450-480 mm
WC centre line to sidewall distance 460-480 mm
WC centre line to rear wall distance 750 mm
Minimum door width of toilet 900 mm
Lift lobby dimension 1500*1500 mm
Minimum size of lift car 1500*1725 mm
Minimum door opening 900 mm
Accessible disabled parking area dimension 3200*4800 mm
Size of symbols
Up to 7.0 m 60*60 mm
7.0 to 18.0 m 100*100 mm
Above 18.0 m 200*200 to 450*450 mm
Height of letters 
1.5 m 50 mm
2.0 m 60 mm
2.5 m 100 mm
3.0 m 120 mm
4.5 m 150 mm
6.0 m 200 mm
8.0 m 250 mm

3. METHODOLOGY
This study employs an explanatory research approach to comprehensively assess the effectiveness of
bus terminal design in meeting the needs of physically challenged individuals. It aims to elucidate the
relationship between inclusive bus terminal design and the specific needs of physically challenged
people. The research commenced with an initial pilot survey to investigate user behaviour patterns,
movement, and sentiments regarding the provided services. This pilot study employed non-participant
observation techniques. The overall research process was bifurcated into two distinct phases. In the
first phase, an extensive framework was established by scrutinizing national and international studies
on the analysis of user satisfaction in public transport services. Particular emphasis was placed on
studies contextual to the research area to gain a more comprehensive understanding of local attributes.
Subsequently, this framework expanded to encompass various factors and sub-factors grouped into
three categories. Multiple research methods were utilized to collect on-site data in alignment with the
established framework. These included non-participant observation, questionnaires, and discussions
for primary data acquisition. In the case of non-participant observation, data was collected during
various days of the week and at different times to account for peak and off-peak periods, among other
pertinent factors.

Figure 2: Methodological Framework

3.1 Study Area

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The Sonadanga bus terminal in Sonadanga, Khulna, encompasses 12.5 acres. It is positioned at a
distance of 3.7 kilometres from Dakbangla More. It is conveniently accessible via three
thoroughfares: M.A. Bari Street, Masjid Saroni Road, and Sonadanga Bypass Road, all of which
intersect near the Sonadanga Bus Terminal. The surrounding land primarily consists of residential
areas with a distinctive mixed land-use pattern encompassing residential and commercial properties.
Furthermore, a natural water body adorns the environs of the terminal (Mohammad Faysal, 2018).

Figure 3: Study Area land use map (Prepared by author)

4. FINDINGS AND ANALYSIS

The Sonadanga Bus Terminal lacks provisions for individuals with physical disabilities. It needs to
exhibit a deficiency in the provision of facilities and adherence to the necessary design standards. A
comprehensive overview of the amenities available for physically challenged individuals at the bus
terminal is presented in Table 3, revealing a significant deficit.

Table 3: Facilities Checklist

Facilities Availability Satisfactory Level

(0-4)
Wheelchair Parking N/A 0
Ramp N/A 0
Pedestrian Walkways  1
Handrail on Walkways N/A 0
Elevators N/A 0
Toilet in Terminal Building  0
Toilet for Physically Challenged in Terminal N/A 0
Building

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Public Toilet  3
Toilet for Physically Challenged in public Toilet  0
Lighting  2
Seating for physically challenged N/A 0
Signage N/A 0
Fire Extinguishing Facilities N/A 0
Virtually all essential facilities required to cater to the needs of physically challenged individuals are
conspicuously absent at the Sonadanga Bus Terminal. Those few facilities that are in place are either
inadequately constructed or inadequately maintained. For instance, the designated accessible toilet
within the public restroom remains consistently inaccessible, failing to meet the required design
specifications.

Figure 4: Bus terminal Plan (Left), Terminal Building Plan (Middle), Public Toilet Plan (Right)

In any public facility, the paramount consideration is ensuring fair access and mobility for all,
including the physically challenged and elderly individuals. Figure 4 illustrates the absence of critical
design elements that enhance accessibility for physically challenged individuals. Notably, the two-
story terminal building lacks an elevator or ramp, rendering it difficult for elderly and physically
disabled individuals to access higher floors. Moreover, the terminal needs a direct road connection
due to obstructed pedestrian walkways created by earth mounds. Although walkways exist, they are
hindered, with one end opening onto a shopfront and the other obstructed by buses parked
haphazardly. The elevated walkways lack proper railings, posing a safety risk to people with physical
disabilities. No provisions have been made for wheelchair or crutch users, and entry to the bus
terminal is impeded by an improperly placed ticket counter with steep stairs. Seating is inadequate
and inaccessible for physically challenged individuals due to the absence of armrests or grab bars.
While the floor material is non-slip, tactile guiding blocks for visually impaired individuals are
conspicuously absent. The cafeteria at the terminal's rear is unhygienic, and the provided restroom
facilities must be more adequately maintained, with no accommodations for physically challenged
individuals.

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Figure 5: Entry of the terminal building blocked by mounted earth (Left), Walkway ends at the front
of a shop (Right)

Unauthorized bike parking within the terminal area requires more management oversight. The public
toilet, despite having a designated accessible toilet, is consistently closed and situated within the main
entry lobby, hindering the movement of physically challenged individuals due to high foot traffic.

Figure 6: Seating area (Left), Walkway is blocked by bus parking (Middle), Entry (Right)

5. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Bus transit is an essential means of transportation for many people every day in developing nations,
and it is also a critical factor in supporting sustainable economic and environmental progress.
However, for it to be used effectively, high consumer satisfaction must be guaranteed. Surprisingly,
few thorough customer satisfaction evaluations exist across different public transportation systems.
This is frequently because of a lack of interest, difficulties with administration, and a need for more
reliable assessment frameworks. International research on public transportation terminals has
emphasized the importance and worth of routinely assessing customer satisfaction to improve service
quality. Survey respondents highlighted the significance of particular architectural elements—
particularly ramps and lifts—in guaranteeing universal accessibility. Lack of such provisions may
restrict an individual's access. Survey respondents said ramps and lifts are more critical design
features for guaranteeing universal access. Those with physical disabilities are unable to utilize the
higher floor in the absence of this assistance.

The Bangladesh National Building Code (BNBC), which emphasizes universal accessibility in public
areas and provides models for consideration, aligns with the principles that address these needs to
consider people with disabilities at every turn. Starting with their admittance is a significant finding
from the survey. Importantly, people who are visually impaired may find the flooring material to be
inconvenient. In addition to better restrooms, respondents felt that better seating places were
necessary.

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(a) (b)

Grabbing rail

Door with
grabbing rail of
975 mm width

Lobby space for

toilet entry and
handwash

(c)
Figure 7: (a) Terminal Building entry, (b) New layout for terminal building, (c) Disabled toilet
(prepared by author)

A redesigned arrangement that makes the current terminal accessible has been proposed to meet these
concerns. By universal accessibility regulations, the revamped plan includes a pedestrian walkway
connected to a paved area with a ramp built with a 1:12 slope. In addition, the design incorporates
guide blocks to assist those who are blind or visually handicapped. Significantly, the layout design
incorporates an area designated for an accessible lavatory specifically engineered to fulfil the criteria
specified in the BNBC 2020. This facility was remodelled to provide accessibility and convenience
for people with disabilities, and it is located in a space that was formerly utilized as a ticket counter.

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The evaluation of Khulna's inclusive bus terminal design with an emphasis on accommodating the
needs of people with disabilities indicates a critical step in guaranteeing inclusivity and accessibility
in public transportation infrastructure. The study's conclusions highlight the importance of specially
designed features that comply with Bangladesh's National Building Code requirements, like ramps,
elevators, visually impaired guiding blocks, and designated accessible restroom spaces. The
advancements in this research show a dedication to improving the user experience in general and
attending to the particular needs of people with disabilities. The findings support the value of
universal access elements in bus terminals and establish a foundation for creating more welcoming
and inclusive public areas in Khulna for people of all backgrounds.

REFERENCES
Highways, M. o. (2022). Accessibility Guidelines for Bus Terminals and Bus Stops . Delhi.
Lee Yin Mun, W. K. (2019). A study on the Barriers in Accessibility for the Disabled at Bus
Terminal. International Conference on Building Energy Conservation, Thermal Safety and
Environmental Pollution Control (p. 136). E3S Web of Conferences.
Mohammad Faysal, N. Z. (2018). ASSESSING SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL
SUSTAINABILITY OF SONADANGA BUS TERMINAL, KHULNA. 4th International
Conference on Civil Engineering for Sustainable Development (ICCESD 2018). Khulna:
ICCESD-2018.
SAJIB, S. H. (2022). Identifying Barriers to the Public Transport Accessibility for Disabled People in
Dhaka: A Qualitative Analysis. Transactions on Transport Sciences.
Seyed Hassan Khalifeh Soltani, M. S. ( 2012). Accessibility for Disabled in Public Transportation
Terminal . Social and Behavioral Sciences, 89 – 96 .

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