Govt Issues SOP For Passenger Train Service, Set To Resume From May 12

New Delhi: With the Ministry of Railways (MoR) deciding to start passenger train services from May 12 in a graded manner, the Union government has laid out a standard operating procedure to be followed by all parties concerned.

Passenger train services were suspended in the country from March 25 to prevent the spread of coronavirus pandemic. Earlier this month, the government started running some special Shtramik Special trains to help stranded worker, students and pilgrims return to their native places.

Now, regular services are set to be rolled out. First and foremost, only passengers with confirmed e-tickets shall be allowed to enter the station.

Following are the other guidelines:

a) All passengers shall be compulsorily screened and only asymptomatic passengers are allowed to enter/board the train.
b) All passengers shall be provided with hand sanitizer at entry and exit points at station and in coaches.
c) All passengers shall be wearing face covers/masks at entry and during travel.
d) During boarding and travel, all passengers will have to observe social distancing.
e) On arrival at their destination, the traveling passengers will have to adhere to such health protocols as are prescribed by the destination state/UT.

The Ministry of Railways will circulate health advisories/guidelines through Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaign for their staff and passengers.

Also read: Passenger Trains To Run From Delhi To Bhubaneswar From May 12