MHA issues SOP for train passengers as rail services set to resume

NEW DELHI: A day before government restarts passenger train services in a graded manner, the home ministry has issued standard operating protocol to facilitate safe movement of persons by train.
As per the SOPs, movement of passengers as well as driver of the vehicle in which the passenger travels to and from the railway station and his entry to the railway station would be permitted only on a confirmed e-ticket. There would be compulsory medical screening of all passengers. Only asymptomatic persons would be allowed to board the train. During the travel and at the railway stations, strict adherence to health/hygiene protocols and social distancing shall have to be observed.
All passengers would be provided with hand sanitizer at entry and exit points at the station and in coaches. Further, it would be ensured that all passengers wear face covers/ masks at entry and during travel.
On arrival at their destination, the traveling passengers would have to adhere to such health protocols as are prescribed by the destination State/ UT.
Movement of trains shall be permitted by Ministry of Railways (MoR) “in a graded manner” in consultation with ministry of health and family welfare (MoHFW) and home ministry.
Protocols for booking, entry and movement of passengers; and coach service specifications shall be widely publicised by ministry of railways.
Health advisories/ guidelines will be circulated by rail ministry through information, education and communication (IEC) campaign for their staff and passengers.