The Department of Transportation (DOTr) released the guidelines for railway-based public transport operations in areas under the General Community Quarantine (GCQ).
In a post from its Facebook page, DOTr said, 'The LRT-1, LRT-2, MRT-3 and PNR will resume its operations with LIMITED CAPACITY after the lifting of the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) imposed in Metro Manila, or on May 16, 2020.'
'Upon the resumption of operations, all rail lines will observe the March 14, 2020 DOTr Guidelines on Community Quarantine, as well as additional health and safety measures pursuant to Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) and Department of Health (DOH) Guidelines.'
'SOCIAL DISTANCING (1-meter) should be strictly observed inside the trains and stations. Presence of markings, signages, tarpaulins and other logistics will be utilized to ensure its firm implementation.'
DOH Guidelines
Pursuant to DOH Guidelines, the following passengers will not be allowed to enter the station:
1) Passengers who are not wearing proper face mask;
2) Passengers showing COVID-19 symptoms or with a registered body temperature of 37.8°C or higher; and
3) Senior citizens, passengers aged 0-20, and pregnant women due to their susceptibility to COVID-19.
Also, regular disinfection and sanitation of train interiors, station premises and facilities will be conducted. In addition, handwashing or disinfectant stations will be installed to adhere to sanitary measures set by DOH.
Social Distance Markers
In compliance with the implementation of one-meter social distancing for public transport, barriers were installed on the seats within the train to maintain adequate distance between riders. Markers were also placed on the floor of each train to provide distance for the passengers standing, as well as on platform areas, in queuing areas and in turnstile areas within stations.
Please note that due to the implementation of limited capacity when these trains are back up, waiting time at the station is expected to be significantly longer than usual.
Do you think this 'new normal' policy can help the commuters once the ECQ is lifted?
Share your ideas at the comments section below.
Photos and infographics from DOTR Facebook Page.
If you have read this blog post here, I like to inform you that the original post is at https://emongsjournals.blogspot.com