The Municipal Transport Company of Fuenlabrada (EMTF) has announced the integration of pictograms on its urban buses. This initiative, presented by mayor Javier Ayala, primarily aims to increase the safety and autonomy of individuals with ASD and other groups facing cognitive challenges, by installing clear visual symbols that explain public transport rules and indications.

As explained by the Councilor for Social Welfare, Raúl Hernández, the campaign seeks to encourage the use of public transport among people with ASD, while simultaneously promoting their integration and independence, thereby establishing Fuenlabrada as an inclusive city.

The graphics will be placed at both the entrance and exit of the bus, clearly and simply detailing the process of boarding and alighting the vehicle. Additionally, EMTF drivers will receive basic training to facilitate communication with individuals with functional diversity.

These pictograms, already in use in other public spaces in Fuenlabrada such as pedestrian crossings and municipal facilities, serve as a key tool for communication with individuals with ASD or other cognitive diversities, helping them understand their surroundings and breaking down communication barriers.

The campaign, driven by the City Council with the collaboration of the Social Welfare department and EMTF, responds to a request from the association ‘Fuenla Incluye’. This association is composed of family members of individuals with ASD in Fuenlabrada and works to address their needs and facilitate their full social development.