Question : resumption of Trains

(a) whether the Government is planning to resume operations of all the trains which were stopped during lockdown period for ease of movement of passengers in the country and if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether the Government is also considering to reduce the train fare as prior to lockdown and if so, the details thereof;

(c) if not, the reasons therefor;

(d) whether the Government has issued any fresh guidelines on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) during normal operations of trains to prevent spread of COVID; and

(e) if so, the details thereof along with other measures being taken by the Government for ease of movement of passengers across the country?

MINISTER OF RAILWAYS, COMMUNICATIONS AND
ELECTRONICS & INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

(SHRI ASHWINI VAISHNAW)

(a) to (c) With a view to contain spread of COVID-19 Pandemic, Indian Railways had discontinued all regular train carrying services

w.e.f. 23rd March, 2020. In view of the COVID-19 situation, only special trains, with limited stoppages, keeping in view the suggestions and concerns of State Governments, were being operated.
During the unlocking process, most of the Mail/Express trains which were included in the working time table, 2021, have been restored. They are now being operated with regular numbers and with regular fares and categorisation as applicable.

(d) & (e): The important provisions of Standard Operating Protocol (SOP) are as under:
(i) Passengers are advised to observe social distancing, wear face cover/masks during travel and download and use Arogya Setu Application.
(ii) Passengers travelling without mask are penalized.
(iii) Provision of separate entry and exit gate at Railway stations has been made to the extent feasible.
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