Public transport starting to flag in implementing anti-Covid-19 measures: survey
People in vulnerable groups, such as elders and the handicapped, are suffering due to vehicle shortage during rush hours despite fewer people than normal using public transport, a survey by Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) revealed.
“ThaiHealth conducted the survey from May 1-8 with 437 respondents and surveillance of 10 bus stops in Bangkok,” said Poranee Phuprasert, director of the foundation's vulnerable group well being promotion office. “We found that people in vulnerable groups are commuting less compared to last year. Around 64.9 per cent have to commute mainly to work, while the secondary reason is for buying food and necessary items.”
“The respondents said that the most common problem that they faced was inadequate vehicles during rush hours, as the social distancing policies announced by the government had significantly limited the number of passengers each vehicle could carry, leading to longer waits for commuters,” added Poranee.
“The other problems are some vehicle operators do not maintain the social distancing practice properly, especially the vans and buses operated by private companies who usually pick up passengers to nearly the limit.”
Boat users also reported that operators do not follow social distancing measures both at piers and on the boats. Furthermore, some users of public transport voiced their concerns about the cleanliness of vehicles and the lack of alcohol hand gels for all passengers, which is vital for the prevention of Covid-19.