MHA issues SOP for trains travel, only asymptomatic confirmed ticket holders to be allowed

NEW DELHI: Only asymptomatic passengers with confirmed ticket will be allowed train travel, the home ministry has said, a day after the railway announced resumption of limited passenger trains. All passengers will have to wear face masks and observe social distancing norms at the stations and during travel.

“Only those passengers with confirmed e-tickets shall be allowed to enter the station. The movement of the passenger(s) as well as the driver of the vehicle transporting the passenger(s) to and from the railway station shall be allowed on the basis of confirmed e-ticket,” the order said.

The railways ministry will ensure that passengers shall be compulsorily screened and only those who are asymptomatic are allowed to board a train. The home ministry said all passengers shall be provided hand sanitisers at stations and in the coaches.


At their destination, passengers will have to adhere to health protocols prescribed by the concerned state. A total of 15 trains for different destinations will leave New Delhi on Tuesday for which bookings began on Monday.

“Train schedule, protocols for booking, entry and movement of passengers and coach service specifications shall be widely publicised by the Ministryof Railways,” an MHA order said. The health advisories and guidelines will be circulated by the railways ministry through the information, education and communication campaign. In another development, an MHA official said over 4,000 Indians have been repatriated in 23 flights since last week under the Vande Bharat mission.