How COVID-19 Affects Public Transportation
A lot has changed in the last couple months with many countries around the world issuing social distancing rules due to the Coronavirus and COVID-19. We wanted to give an update on how public transportation has changed in major cities around the world.
Istanbul
Passengers riding public transportation in Istanbul must wear face masks. You will not be allowed to ride the Metro, Buses, Trams, Funicular or Marmaray without a mask.
Kuala Lumpur
Rapid KL service has been reduced to every 10 minutes per train and passengers are encouraged to practice proper health and safety guidelines.
Lisbon
Metro, Bus and Trams are operating regular service with free access. Buses and tram swill stop at every stop automatically so you don’t have to press a request stop button. Ticket offices are closed. Train schedules are reducing service to align with reduced passenger demand.
London
TfL is suggesting not to travel unless essential. Some stations have changed entrances and exits and you must now board buses using the middle door only.
New York City
The MTA in New York City is running “Essential Service”. The state has required everyone to wear masks or coverings in public and the MTA asks “If you’re not traveling for work related to an essential business, or for urgent personal business like a medical appointment, do not use the subway or take the bus.” Subways and buses are operating with fewer crews and are no longer accepting cash fares.
Paris
The RATP in Paris has reduced service anywhere from 30% to 50% depending on line. Specific line information can be found below.
San Francisco
The SFMTA in San Francisco is operating fewer routes on a core service plan. Face coverings are required when using public transit. Core service lines and updates to this information can be found at the link below.
Seoul
Seoul reduced the fleet operations and has increased disinfection of their public transportation vehicles (including taxis and Seoul Bike) They have also installed hand sanitizers and emergency masks on vehicles like buses.
Singapore
Singapore has reduced transit and want public transportation to only be used for essential travel. Disinfecting of vehicles has been increased and many other personal health suggestions are listed on their website and WhatsApp group.
Taipei
Taipei has reduced service, increased cleaning and setup thermo imaging to monitor rider body temperatures at the MRT gates. If your body temperature is too high, you will not be allowed to ride the MRT. There is also a NT$15,000 fine for not wearing a mask on public transportation.
Tokyo
Public transit in Tokyo is still crowded, just not as bad as before with ridership down 40% to 70% depending on time of day. Riders are encouraged to wear masks, disinfect their hands with alcohol and be mindful of social distancing and personal health practices.
More info.
Toronto
The TTC in Toronto recommends riders to practice good hand hygiene and maintain appropriate distance from other riders. Some vehicles have had seats put out of commission to force safe seating distance. Operators will not longer hand riders paper transfers and bus riders are asked to board at the rear doors.
This is just a summary found at the time of this posting. These cities are most likely going to be changing their policies regularly. Please make sure you contact the transportation authority for the most up to date info.
