Lahore: The Punjab government on Monday announced its decision to resume inter-city bus services subject to mandatory online ticketing, a news source reported. According to the details available, the provincial government has taken the said decision to facilitate the public ahead of Eid – and to minimise their risk of coronavirus infection.
The authorities concerned have issued certain SOPs to resume the inter-city bus services in the province. Apart from mandatory online ticketing, these include contact tracing, social distancing, disinfection, and sanitation.
The SOPs issued are:
Distance of 3 feet between each passenger while boarding
Disinfection of buses after completion of every trip
Hand sanitizer facilities at terminals and within vehicles
Persons with fever or cough not allowed on vehicles
Passengers to wear masks and gloves
Seats next to passengers over 65 years of age to remain vacant
Minimum baggage
Frequent disinfection of waiting areas, terminals, bays, allied facilities
Availability of soaps and sanitizers in public toilets
Bus companies to deploy additional staff for managing crowds at terminals and marking positions
The provincial government has emphasised the need for contact tracing. This involves tracking passengers via the online ticketing technology. Following the journey, if a person develops COVID-19 symptoms, the government will be able to track them via their travel history, and then test all passengers at risk of transmission.
According to sources, many web and app-based platforms are currently providing online ticketing services for all major D-Class luxury buses. Meanwhile, the Punjab government has also reduced public transport fares in light of reduced fuel prices.
