No Entry Without Aarogya Setu App, Masks On Delhi Metro After Lockdown Ends

Delhi Metro passengers should be ready for a world of change as the public means of transport readies to open up after the nationwide lockdown incited by the Coronavirus outbreak. More than anything, these changes will direct our social etiquettes in a way to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus at least within the Metro.

A gist of the changes proposed by CISF on Thursday include use of face masks, removal of metallic items before frisking and interestingly enough, the use of 'Aarogya Setu' app as a mandate.

Representative image

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A clear directive among these proposals is that no person with a fever or other flu-like symptoms will be allowed to travel in the Delhi Metro. The decision will safeguard others from contracting the disease in any manner possible.

As per CISF, the plan will ensure "public confidence in the ability of the rapid rail network to deliver under any circumstance and to thwart evil designs of disruptive forces to hit the smooth functioning of the network."

Delhi Metro (Representative Image: BCCL)

With that intention, here is the proposal that the CISF has put forward as a 'business continuity plan' for resuming operations of Delhi Metro while taking strict precautionary measures.

- Wearing masks will be a mandate for all the commuters in Delhi Metro

- All passengers will have to go through thermal screening at the entry points of Metro stations. Those with abnormal body temperature (or flu like symptoms) will not be allowed to enter.

- Identification of suspected persons can also be done through Aarogya Setu app and its inbuilt e-pass feature

- All passengers might have to take out metallic items like belts and buckles before frisking and get them scanned through an x-ray machine, just like security check at an airport.

- At least two meters distance will be maintained between the security screening place and line-up points.

- Shops and other commercial establishments will ensure social distancing at their locations by using markings.

- Passengers will be advised regularly of the mentioned practices, including refraining from touching any surface inside the metro stations or trains.

Delhi Metro (Representative Image: BCCL)

- The entire station area will be sanitised with chemicals, including security fixtures, equipment and x-ray tables, every 30 minutes.

- Hand sanitisation or washing facility will be available at entry points of stations.

- Surveillance, both electronic and manual, will be intensified on all activities within the metro premises.

- More staff will be deployed at automated fare collection gates and platforms to ensure that COVID-19 protocols are being followed.

- Though CISF personnel will wear regular uniforms with fully covered sleeves, gloves and masks, four PPE suits will be kept as standby to handle a suspected infected passenger.

For now, the proposal still seeks approval and once through, will be implemented by CISF in consultation with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) and the ministry of Urban Development. So make sure you are fully equipped to travel before boarding the Delhi Metro next time.

Source