COVID-19: Bus operators reduce number passengers from 59 to 28

Ahead of the reopening of the nation’s economy currently locked down to curtail the spread of COVID-19, long distance bus operators have resolved to reduce the number of passengers they convey per trip.

This was part of the guidelines prepared by bus operators under the umbrella of the Public Transport Owners of Nigeria Association and presented to the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, chaired by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha.

The guidelines are contained in a letter signed by the association’s President, Isaac Uhunmwagho, of Efex Executive/Efosa Express; and Frank Nneji of the ABC Transport Plc, with the title, ‘Proposed COVI-19 protocols/procedures for interstate passenger operators.’

The association said that because of the physical distancing protocol, the number of passengers per row in the buses would be reduced to two, explaining that 15-seater buses would henceforth convey only nine passengers, including the driver, while a 59-seater bus would convey only 28 passengers.

It added that no vehicles would be allowed to operate with air-conditioners.

The step, according to the document, is to allow free flow of fresh air.

It read, “PTONA shall have a task force to work jointly with designated representatives of the government, like the Federal Road Safety Corps, to ensure compliance with all the protocols listed above.

“All passenger operations shall be carried out from designated organised/standard bus terminals, not from road sides.

“Each transport terminal shall designate a staff as ‘health officer’ who shall be acquainted with all COVID-19 prevention/management protocols. The officer will liaise with appropriate NCDC official in the state of operation.”

It added, “There shall be established in each location of the company, a washing station to comprise the following: water storage bucket, receiving bowl and liquid soap. This will be for the use of each customer/passenger entering our business premises.

“There shall also be provided hand sanitiser in a standard dispenser. Both washing station and sanitiser have to be placed in strategic locations for the use of all customers.

“An infrared thermometer must be provided by the company at each departure terminal.”

It said anybody with body temperature above 37.5oC would be reported for appropriate action, while the customer involved would be adequately informed about the decision. Punch