Local trains are the lifeline of Mumbai, and the locals’ shut down due to the pandemic brought the city to a standstill. While health and essential workers were allowed to travel, others found it difficult to manoeuvre their way to the town. Later, they also permitted women to travel during non-peak hours. The news of the local train’s return to full service for the general public has undoubtedly been a delight for all. But local train travel may not be like before. Here’s everything that will change.
Train Timings For General Commuters
The local train for the general public will only be available for three time slots, restricting your travelling hours. In the first slot, trains will run from the start of the day to 7 am. The second slot would be from 12 pm to 4 pm, and the third would be from 9 pm to the end of the day. Travel between 7 am to 12 pm and from 4 pm to 9 pm will only be for essential workers. Mumbai Locals Are Now Being Disinfected In Lieu Of The Coronavirus
Dos & Don’ts To Remember
Wearing masks is compulsory, and you can be fined if found without one. There will be random checks in the entry and exit gates to prevent unauthorised entry into railway areas. Besides, the platform staff are well-briefed regarding the nature of duties in all situations. Survey Says Approx 62% Of Mumbaikars Will Not Travel By Mumbai Locals Once Lockdown Eases.
Taking to Twitter, the Railway Minister Piyush Goyal wrote, “My dear Mumbai citizens, for the convenience of all of you, the Mumbai local train will be started from February 1.” He further added “I urge all of you to follow all the necessary rules and guidelines related to Coronavirus during the journey. Any negligence can become a problem for us and others as well. If you are safe, then everyone travelling with you will be safe.”
Over 500 People Fined For Not Wearing Masks
While wearing a mask is mandatory in public, Over 500 commuters were fined for not wearing face masks. The Mumbai Division of Railways and Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation have fined passengers for not wearing a mask on board. They charged the commuters ₹200 each.
Also read: India’s Longest Expressway To Cut Mumbai & Delhi Distance By 220 Km
We need to adhere to Covid-19 norms and protocols to combat the deadly virus and ensure trains’ smooth operations.