Sending passengers to states or UTs will be done after their compulsory screening

The Ministry of Home Affairs has asked states and Union Territories to designate nodal authorities and make necessary arrangements for receiving and sending people stranded in different corners of the country.

While issuing revised Standard Operating Protocol on the movement of stranded workers by trains on Tuesday, the Ministry has also made it clear that the Ministry of Railways would permit movement of ‘Shramik Special’ trains only after prior consultation with the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The train schedule, including stoppage and destination will be finalized after assessing the requirements of states and the UTs.

The Home Ministry said publicity of train schedule, protocols for entry and movement of passengers, services to be provided in coaches and booking of tickets will be done by the Ministry of Railways in arrangements with states and UTs.

Sending passengers to states or UTs will be done after compulsory screening and only asymptomatic passengers will be allowed to board the train.

The Home Ministry further said that all passengers will have to observe social distancing during boarding and travel, while on arrival at their destination, passengers will have to adhere to such protocols as are prescribed by the destination state and Union Territory.