Reduction of inequality and social exclusion is a global concern. In Brazil, this theme has particular bearing on residents of favelas, which are generally isolated spatially from the rest of the city because of a lack of harmony between the transportation and habitation sectors. A path toward a solution to the problem is to improve accessibility by increasing the use of public transportation, including by the construction of low-cost housing and concentration of activities near commuter train stations. This study examines the factors influencing the relationship between the people who live in favelas and their use of commuter trains. These communities and stations are important trip generation hubs, reinforcing the need for this articulation. The factors that discourage/encourage access to stations indicate how to intervene in the transportation area. These proposals need to be put into effect by inclusive public policies that seek to integrate individuals in the social milieu, by establishing standards of accessibility in different spaces that help harmonize the mobility of favela residents with that of other city dwellers.
social inclusion; rail systems; favelas; accessibility; immobility