Problem Statement

<aside> 💡 Commuting in Metro Manila remains a daily challenge for Filipino Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), particularly those who rely on wheelchairs or have mobility issues. Research shows that existing public transportation options, including buses, jeepneys, taxis, tricycles, trains, and even modern ride-hailing applications like Grab and Uber lack accessibility features.

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Objective

<aside> <img src="/icons/map-pin-alternate_orange.svg" alt="/icons/map-pin-alternate_orange.svg" width="40px" /> Our objective is to bring a solution to these people with physical impairments that struggle to find a way to commute with ease and were victims of inequalities in terms of transportation.

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Project Overview

<aside> <img src="/icons/phone_blue.svg" alt="/icons/phone_blue.svg" width="40px" /> Introducing eCarga, a mobile ride-hailing application exclusively designed for people with mobility disabilities and physical impairments. It provides easy-access booking system for specialized vans and tricycles designed for people with mobility impairment.

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Target Audience

<aside> <img src="/icons/friends_gray.svg" alt="/icons/friends_gray.svg" width="40px" /> Primary Target

• Individuals with mobility disabilities and physical impairments: This is the core user group. eCarga target people who use wheelchairs, walkers, canes, or have other limitations that make it difficult to use traditional ride-hailing services. </aside>

<aside> <img src="/icons/friends_gray.svg" alt="/icons/friends_gray.svg" width="40px" /> Secondary Audience:

• Caregivers and family members: People who assist individuals with disabilities in transportation can benefit greatly from eCarga's accessible booking system.
• Senior citizens: Many elderly people face mobility challenges that could be addressed by eCarga's specialized vehicles.
• Hospitals and rehabilitation centers: These institutions can partner with eCarga to provide transportation options for emergency patients.
• Government agencies and NGOs focused on disability inclusion: Collaborations can raise awareness about eCarga and potentially offer subsidized rides for qualified individuals. </aside>

Impact

<aside> <img src="/icons/friends_gray.svg" alt="/icons/friends_gray.svg" width="40px" /> By creating an accessible ride hailing application for Filipino PWDs, eCarga aims to contribute significantly to SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), ensuring that every Filipino people has equal treatment when it comes to transportation and creating a more PWD friendly communities by creating innovative solutions.

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Features

<aside> <img src="/icons/computer-chip_gray.svg" alt="/icons/computer-chip_gray.svg" width="40px" /> eCarga key features include:

• Accessible Mode of Transportation: Exclusively designed vans and tricycles for people who have mobility issues.
• Easy-access Booking System: PWDs can book their preferred vehicle and destination while having the freedom to choose when they want to be picked up.
• Trained Drivers: Drivers will undergo a training for them to be qualified enough to know how to handle riders carefully.
• Emergency Button: An emergency button within the app could connect riders with emergency vans that could pick them up immediately. </aside>

Technical Stack

eCarga leverages **Flutter** for a user-friendly mobile app on both iOS and Android. Firebase by **Google** powers the backend, offering a scalable database, secure logins, and real-time functionality. **Google Maps Platform** integrates seamlessly for accurate location services and accessible navigation.

Future Plans

Phase 1: Post-Hackathon Development

• Refine the MVP: Based on hackathon feedback and user testing, we will iterate on the eCarga app to improve functionality, user experience, and accessibility features.
• Expand Vehicle Network: We will partner with existing transport providers or disability organizations to increase the number of accessible vans and tricycles registered on the platform.