As rumours continue regarding the new relaxations and rules which will be the basis of lockdown 4.0 announced by the Prime Minister, the Delhi Government stated that they might open public transport services in the state in the new phase if the central government gives
them the permission to do so as per the Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot.
“Might open with certain guidelines”
A standard procedure (SOP) for the safe operation of metro trains and buses was discussed during a meeting attended by Gahlot and top officers of the Transport Department and therefore the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC).
“Discussed SOPs for safe opening of Delhi metro & buses with officials of @TransportDelhi, @OfficialDMRC, @dtchq_delhi, @DimtsLtd @DDC_Delhi & experts from @WRIIndia. If the central govt. allows, Delhi is confident of running public TPT under the leadership of @ArvindKejriwal,” Gahlot said in a tweet.
“Public cooperation”
The minister stated that public cooperation will be key to the successful resumption of transport services.”Social distancing, contactless ticketing and disinfection are getting to be the three pillars of our strategy to run public transport safely. And all of this may be possible as long as people of Delhi cooperate. Delhi is going to be back on its feet as long as people and therefore the govt work together,” he said in
another tweet.
“DTC Buses”
Gahlot said weekly passes and use of electronic ticketing machines to minimise contact, alternate seating arrangements to take care of social distancing and thermal screening devices will be ensured in DTC and cluster buses. He said the number of passengers on a bus are going to be kept to around 20 to ensure proper social distancing. Also, civil defence volunteers, marshals and enforcement personnel are going to be deployed at bus queue shelters to implement social distancing, the minister added.
Gahlot said the choice to resume Delhi Metro services are going to be taken by the central government.
“Metro stations guidelines”
A senior officer present within the meeting said as per the Delhi Metro’s standard operating procedure, main stations are going to be opened while some are going to be closed. Also, stations lying in containment zones won’t be opened. The air con at Metro stations are going to be regulated to allow maximum circulation of fresh air, he added.
“Other public transport services”
Plying of auto-rickshaws, taxis and other modes of transport will depend upon the central government’s guidelines after the extended lockdown thanks to the pandemic ends on May 17, a senior Transport Department officer said.
