Commuters in New South Wales returning to work are being advised to avoid using public transport at peak times.
As coronavirus lockdown measures loosen, Minister for Transport and Roads, Andrew Constance, is urging people to walk, cycle or drive to work to ensure the public transport system can operate safely.
Constance says said the current low patronage levels on the transport system are already close to the safe capacity in the peak period.
“Everyone will need to maintain physical distancing during this pandemic,” he said. “That means if you are not already using public transport during the peak times, please do not use public transport during peak periods.”
The move is part of the NSW Government COVID Safe Transport Plan. Other initiatives include:
- Deep cleaning and more hand sanitisers on the transport network.
- Boosting parking spaces.
- Pop-up cycleways and enhancing pedestrian access.
- Physical distancing – ‘No dot, no spot’: Distinctive green dots used on trains, buses and ferries to show passengers the safest places to sit and stand.
- More data: Customers to be given real time information through apps, social media and Transport Info to see which services have space available to maintain physical distancing; and
- More services: Changes will be considered to increase services eg more ferries, water taxis and private vehicle passenger services on the water.
