Hyderabad Metro has resumed its operations in a phased manner between September 7 and September 9, 2020. Some of the metro stations falling under containment zones like Gandhi Hospital, Bharat Nagar, Moosapet, Musheerabad, and Yusufguda will remain shut. The metro operations are guided as per the SOPs released by the Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited (HMRL).
Hyderabad Metro has implemented a host of measures, under its purview to run the operations, whilst keeping the commute as safe as possible. Only asymptomatic people are being allowed inside the metro stations and anyone showing even the slightest symptoms would be referred to the nearest covid care center or hospital for testing and further medical attention.
Face masks are mandatory for all the commuters, while they are also actively encouraged to use the Aarogya Setu app. There are masks available for purchase at stations in case commuters fail to get them. All three corridors have been fully operational from September 9th while trains on all three corridors will operate between 7 am and 9 pm, with a frequency of around 5 minutes.
Authorities continue to monitor the passenger traffic and the frequency of metro rail will be increased or decreased to avoid crowding. The alternate seats in the trains are marked with an ‘X’, so that they can remain vacant, along with markings at stations and inside the coaches so that passengers can maintain proper social distancing. These measures are being constantly monitored through CCTV by the station controller, train operators and the Operation Control Centre (OCC).
Commuters are also being encouraged to opt for cashless or online transactions for the smart card and mobile QR tickets. They are also being advised to travel with minimum luggage and avoid metallic items to enable quick scanning. Commuters are also advised to carry hand sanitizers with them. Meanwhile the security personnel and guards have been trained to maintain adequate levels of safety while frisking commuters, without compromise in the safety drills. Proper PPE kits and sanitizers have been provided to employees who will be likely in contact with commuters for more duration. Pedal-type sanitizer dispensers are also available at stations so that passengers can keep their hands germ-free.
The slew of measures including regular sanitization of coaches, escalators and the premises of metro stations and platforms are being carried out regularly. Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited is committed to ensuring a safe and secure commute, in times of Covid-19 with highest operating standards in place.
