Delhi Lockdown 4.0: Cabs, Buses Allowed To Operate, But Metro Remains Suspended; Check Details Here

Delhi government has allowed autos, E-rikshaws, cycle rikshaws to run across national capital with the condition of accommodating only one passenger at a time.

CM directed Transport department to make sure that social distancing norms are followed. (File Photo/ Getty)

New Delhi: With the first day of lockdown Phase-IV, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal unveiled new guidelines on movement of citizens across state. In his latest action plan that has come with several relaxation, Chief Minster said that Coronavirus won't end in the next few months. "While the fight against Covid-19 pandemic remains priority, Lockdown can't remain permanently. It is equally important to restart our economy gradually and amend our lives according to it." Keeping the modified guideline issued by Home Ministry on Sunday, Kejriwal government announced few relaxations in transport to bring Delhi back on track in a gradual manner. According to the new rules, Delhi metro will remain suspended for commuters till May 31. The decision regarding Metro services was announced by the Centre government on Sunday and has been accepted by Delhi government. Following the directives, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) also reiterated  to remain the train services shut untill next order.

“In light of the extension of lockdown issued by the government, metro services will remain closed for commuters till 31st May. Our helpline services 155370 shall also not be available. You may reach us at helpline@dmrc.org,” the DMRC said in a tweet. Among other guidelines in terms of movement of people in the national capital, Delhi government said that public buses will be allowed to ply with not more than 20 people on it at a time. Guidelines further stated that each passenger will undergo screening for body temperature before they board the buses. CM directed Transport department to make sure that social distancing norms are followed at all bus-stops and inside the bus. Government has also allowed RTV buses to resume operation but only 11 commuters will be allowed. Delhi government also allowed autos, E-rikshaws, cycle rikshaws to run across national capital with the condition of accommodating only one passenger at a time. Similarly, cabs, taxi services may run with two passengers. moreover, four passengers will be allowed in one private vehicle. Unveiling these guidelines, Kejriwal urged citizens to follow self-discipline. He said that despite these relaxations, it is important for all the citizens to wear mask, sanitize/ wash their hands frequently and follow the norms of social distancing in order to avoid COVID-19 infection which has claimed over over 150 lives in Delhi. The Delhi government has been pushing for opening up the economic activities in the city, saying due to the lockdown, the national capital has reported a revenue loss of about Rs 3,200 crore in April as compared to the previous year.