MRT trains will relax from Wednesday social distancing practices that had been implemented to prevent the spread of Covid-19, Bangkok Expressway and Metro (BEM) and Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA), the train operators, said on Tuesday.
“The relaxation is in line with the government’s fifth phase of easing of lockdown measures, and to accommodate the increase in commuters after schools reopen on July 1,” said the announcement. “Under the fifth phase, Department of Rail Transport allows public rail vehicles to carry passengers at 70 per cent of capacity and cancel the distancing norm of at least one metre in seating and standing areas, meaning passengers can now occupy all seats as usual.”
Passengers, however, must pass a thermal screening process before entering the train system (those with 37.5 degrees Celsius temperature and above will not be allowed in), wear face masks at all times, use alcohol gel hand sanitiser which is provided at all stations, and check-in/out via the ThaiChana platform.
The MRT operator also has asked passengers to refrain from talking while on the train, and stand in the specified yellow marks on the floor, facing the recommended direction to reduce the risk of Covid-19 spreading.
