Railways to launch 24 trains after approval

The Pakistan Railways (PR) is contemplating to launch 24 trains on up and down routes following end to lockdown due to coronavirus outbreak. However, this is still a proposal and it will be implemented after approval of the federal government.

The decision to this effect was taken during a video-link meeting of the high-ups of Railways chaired by Minister Railways Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad on Friday. The meeting also decided that families will not be allowed to come to railway stations to see off passengers and no one except passengers will be allowed in 200 meters radius around the railway station.

Railways will take some precautionary measures after the lockdown is over to launch train operation including allowing only online booking and E-ticketing and closure of booking 24 hours before the departure of any train.

Only 60 percent occupancy rate will be ensured in every train to implement the principle of social distancing. An officer of the Railways will accompany every train to ensure implementation on the rule of social distancing. It was also decided to take strict action if anyone is found travelling in freight trains.

Passengers will be allowed to enter stations one hour before the departure of these proposed trains. They will be asked to keep mask, gloves, sanitizer and soap with them. All passengers will be sanitized before entry or exit on any station.

The meeting also directed the divisional superintendents to ensure opening of stalls of essential items at all stops of these trains and also ensure the quality of eatables. Divisional superintendents and chief medical & health officers will also ensure the provision of essential medical staff at all stops. Pakistan Railways (PR) sources said the operation was conditional with any relaxation or a complete end to the lockdown and final nod by the federal government.