RIGHT TO TRANSPORT AND THE CITY: CHALLENGES OF URBAN MOBILITY AT THE GUAMÁ BUS TERMINAL IN BELÉM-PA

Abstract

Urban mobility, interconnected with the rights to the city and transport, depends on inclusive and accessible public spaces to guarantee the human dignity of users. The problem-question sought to answer "how is urban mobility characterized in the case of the Guamá Bus Terminal, located in the city of Belém in the state of Pará?". The general objective of the study was to demonstrate how urban mobility is presented in this terminal. To answer the problem, an inductive method was used with the adoption of a qualitative approach, combining theoretical, documentary, bibliographic and field research. Data collection included on-site observations and analysis of official documents. The contributions of Kowarick's and Harvey's theories on urban space and mobility were used in the theoretical framework. The theories proved to be relevant to understand the dynamics of urban mobility in the studied context, revealing the contradictions between official discourse and reality experienced by users. The results of the field research revealed precarious urban mobility in the terminal, marked by a lack of information about lines and schedules, long waiting times, overcrowding, and inadequate infrastructure, such as lighting, benches, ramps, and tactile floors. Such conditions have also compromised the accessibility and inclusion of people with disabilities or reduced mobility, directly impacting the rights to transport and the city. The research highlights the need for interventions in the terminal, based on the criteria presented in decrees and technical standards, including structural reforms and improvements in management and information, to ensure the realization of these human rights.