Railways issues fresh SOP for movement of passengers

New Delhi, May 6: A Standard Operating Protocol (SOP) for movement of passengers by train has been issued by Ministry of Railways for running of special train services throughout the country. The fully waiting list ticket shall not be permitted to travel by train and enter into the station. Unreserved tickets (UTS) shall be permitted on limited trains only on which such unreserved journey has been permitted. Catering charges will not be included in the fare.  A prepaid catering service in trains has been disabled.  However, ready to eat meals, packed items, packaged drinking water bottles, tea, coffee, beverages etc, will be made available to passengers on trains on payment basis through pantry cars, trains side vending.  This information will be made available during the time of booking ticket. In addition to this, IRCTC will enable catering services to passengers through e-catering facility.  Provision of catering services in trains shall be subject to compliance of all safety and hygiene protocols issued by Government from time to time.  No linen, blankets and curtains will be provided inside the train.  Passengers are requested to carry their own linen while travelling in trains.  Bedrolls kits are available on purchase at all multi-purpose stalls.   Wearing face mask is compulsory at stations and in trains, otherwise a fine up to Rs. 500/- to be collected from passengers.  All passengers have been advised by the railways to follow all prescribed COVID protocols positively and down load Arogya Setu App.  Asymptomatic passengers, after subjected to thermal screening at station, will be permitted to travel.  Passengers should carry their own hand sanitizers & observe social distancing.