Unlock 4.0: Metro may resume services in Delhi; Here is a list of precautions to stay safe

As the fourth phase of unlocking plan is all set to come into effect from September 1, reports are citing that the Metro service in Delhi-NCR may also resume with strict restrictions. As per the government sources, Delhi metro is likely to resume services for 15 days on a trial basis initially and only 50 passengers will be allowed per coach. Automated ticket vending machines and contactless ticketing are quite likely to be put in use to avoid the spread of coronavirus.

Additionally, automatic thermal cameras will be installed to check the temperature of the passengers and seating and standing positions will be marked beforehand to comply with the social distancing norms. Metro rail services were suspended in Delhi-NCR in the month of March, in a bid to contain the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. While detailed SOPs will be issued by the Government of India, it is important to remember that the pandemic is far from over, even if the things have started opening slowly.

As we brace ourselves to live with the new normal, we are listing down 7 precautions you must follow while travelling by Metro to keep yourself and others safe.

This one is a no-brainer. Make sure that you wear an N-95 mask (without a valve), a face covering or a cloth mask of your choice throughout the journey. Do not take off the mask at any point, when you are inside the Metro. You can always wear a face shield, along with your face covering for added protection. Also, carry disposable masks and gloves.

Take the staircase as much as possible as using an elevator puts you at the risk of close contact with other people. Reserve the elevators for those who truly need it, including the elderlies and differently-abled people.

Before sitting down, clean the seat with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer or a disinfectant. Make sure to discard the used tissue paper properly.

If you are standing, avoid touching the poles and handrails as much as possible. If you absolutely have to, make sure that you wear disposable gloves or sanitize them before touching and sanitize your hands afterwards.

Be patient when it comes to boarding and deboarding the Metro and avoid coming in contact or bumping into other passengers.

It is best to carry your own lunch and snacks to avoid crowding at the shops at the Metro stations. The idea is to minimize contact with those around you, as much as possible.

Whether it is a mild bout of cough or an unexplained body ache, do not travel if you feel sick or have been in close contact with someone who developed COVID-19 symptoms. Ensure that you are standing at least 6 feet away from others, at all times (approximately 2 arms distance.