Resuming public transport

The government has been gradually reopening almost all sectors of the economy from lockdown restrictions. The provincial government in Sindh has reluctantly agreed while stressing on the implementation of SOPs and safety procedures.

The main sticking point was the resumption of public transport. The Sindh government finally allowed the resumption of inter-city transport but even public buses were seen plying the road. Sindh Transport Minister Owais Shah held a meeting with transporters, granting them permission to resume services after suspension for nearly two months.

As expected, all SOPs and safety precautions were tossed out of the window as buses returned to the roads. Social distancing rules were clearly kept aside as buses were packed with commuters as usual, nor was there any enforcement on wearing masks while the availability of hand sanitizers remains wishful thinking.

Law-enforcements acted as mere spectators as public buses, notorious for rash driving and disregard for traffic rules, are now hampering efforts to contain the spread of the coronavirus. The government has set up a monitoring and inspection committee to oversee implementation but this is unlikely to be effective.

The Sindh government vowed that action will be taken against those transporters violating the SOPs and such buses may even be shut down. Vehicles are not allowed to carry extra passengers but these rules continued to be flouted throughout the day.

Ride-hailing services have been reopened but only two people have allowed in a vehicle at a time. The bigger threat lies with public buses used by hundreds of commuters. There is no doubt that public transport is used by lower segments of society but these are high-risk for the virus which continues to take its toll on our lives and health.

The government seems to have acted in haste in reopening public transport while expecting them to be bound by SOPs. The leeway given to them should be revoked if these continue such blatant violations.

While the battle against the pandemic is far from over, the government has been reopening different sectors without considering the consequences. The decision shall also be considered.