Israel Expands Accessible Intercity Bus Lines with Electric Wheelchair Lifts

Starting next Friday, six intercity bus lines connecting Jerusalem, Bnei Brak, Ramat Gan, and Petah Tikva will be equipped with electric wheelchair lifts to improve accessibility for passengers with disabilities. The affected routes are 400, 401, 404, 422, 425, and 427. Each bus on these lines will have one designated wheelchair space and an electric lift to assist boarding and disembarking. To use this service, passengers must reserve their spot in advance by calling the public transportation companies' call centers. Reservations can be made until 4 p.m. the day before for weekday trips, and until 12:30 p.m. on Fridays for trips planned for Saturday night or Sunday.

This initiative is part of a broader effort launched in 2023 to make intercity buses more accessible, complementing existing accessibility on Israel Railways, light rail systems in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, and urban bus lines. Transportation Minister Merav Michaeli emphasized that "the right to move freely and independently is a basic right for every citizen," and highlighted the expansion as a significant step toward reducing barriers for wheelchair users. Ministry of Transport Director General Moshe Ben Zaken added that the national mission is to enable safe, independent, and equitable travel for all, with plans to continue expanding accessible services based on operational capabilities and demand.