The lockdown period across the nation inflicted closing of all transport means that included flights and trains as well. But post the lockdown period, some states have resumed train services like before but abiding by the covid protocols. In Chennai also, the train services were resumed back in the months of October but it was not open for all. The lady passengers and staff were only allowed to travel in the southern railways for essential work purposes. But from Dec 14, they can travel on all suburban trains without any restrictions.
Southern railway services resumed post lockdown
After the nationwide lockdown was lifted back in the months of June-July, train services are still not resumed in many states. In Chennai also, train services resumed back in October but women passengers were only allowed during non-peak hours and the ones who had essential services to join. But this December 14, the southern railways have announced that women passengers will be able to travel in all suburban trains without any restrictions. Not only will that, but children below the age of 12 also be allowed to travel with the women passengers.
Women in Chennai happier with the move
The move shall make life easier for women who need to travel by the train route for essential purposes. Train journeys are always more affordable and comfortable for all, be it a man or woman. So, after this move, women passengers are very happy. A press release by the southern railways says, “This move would benefit lady passengers as they will be able to travel in the Chennai suburban services throughout the day”. The train services of the route “Chennai Beach- Chengalpattu- Kanchipuram/Thirumalpur- Arakkonam” will also be resumed as these routes are favored more by office goers and college students as well.
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The safety protocols must be maintained well
Though it is good news that the train services are resumed in full swing and that it would benefit a lot of lady passengers during peak hours, it must also be remembered that the pandemic isn’t over yet. And all the safety protocols must be maintained well so that people remain safe even though they travel by train. All the covid protocols must be maintained and the passengers must be active towards maintaining the safety protocols.
The Policy Times suggestion
- This is a good move by the Chennai government to allow lady passengers to travel in all suburban trains as it would help them travel smoothly without any hindrances. But they must also take care of the fact that the covid protocols are maintained well so that the risk factors do not increase.
- The railway authorities must ensure the women travel safely and the sanitization process and maintenance of social distance must be taken care of, by them to ensure complete safety of the passengers.
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