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The coronavirus causes COVID-19 disease. The disease infects the patient's respiratory system, and in extreme conditions can lead to the individuals' death. It has a high transmission rate, because of which it has spread rapidly across the globe.
In March 2020, India went into a nationwide lockdown to slow the spread of coronavirus. In the last few months, the country has been opening up again and resuming national and international travel. To aid a successful ‘unlock’ process, the government created travel guidelines for all citizens to follow. This process has been established to ensure the safety of travelers and minimize the spread of the virus amongst passengers.
Read on to know the guidelines released by the government for various modes of transport.
Guidelines for travel by air
The revised rules shared by the Government of India for air travel mainly revolve around guidelines for international arrival. Before you plan your travel, you are required to submit a self-declaration form at least 72 hours before your departure.
Additionally, an undertaking needs to be provided, mentioning that you would undergo 14 days of mandatory quarantine. Before boarding, you will also have to download the Aarogya Setu App.
A thermal screening will be conducted before you board the flight. The airports will be following precautionary measures, such as social distancing and disinfection. Upon boarding, you will be required to follow certain precautions, such as wearing your mask and a shield.
On reaching your destination, you will have to submit your self-declaration form to the airport health staff. In case you have any symptoms during screening, the authorities will guide you to the medical facility, and you will be required to undertake isolation.
Guidelines for travel by train
The SOP for train travel (Standard Operating Procedure) is very similar to that of air travel. Before boarding the train, you will be screened and only be allowed to board if you show no symptoms. Unlike the pre-COVID-19 era, you will have to reach the station 90 minutes before the train's departure. You will be allowed to enter the station only if you have a confirmed ticket.
It is mandatory to wear a mask at all times and maintain social distancing. On the train, passengers will not be provided with bedding or meals. You are also advised to carry your own linen and food for the journey. Food plazas on the station can only provide you with takeaway food packages.
Railway stations will maintain separate entry and exit gates to avoid crowding. There will be no unreserved coaches in the train, and the normal fares will be charged to passengers. In case you are showing any symptoms of the coronavirus, the authorities will not allow you to travel, but you can apply for a full refund within ten days from the date of the journey.
Guidelines for travel by metro
The SOP for metro train travel has been issued by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. As per the guidelines, only asymptomatic passengers will be allowed to board the metro. Wearing a mask is compulsory at all times for all passengers and metro staff.
Social distancing has to be followed at the metro station and inside the metro. Stations in containment zones will remain closed.
Conclusion
While the unlock process has enabled you to travel again, it is advised to follow all said measures to ensure your safety. You could also invest in a health insurance plan that would cover your medical expenses in case you test positive for coronavirus.
There are some useful Covid insurance policies available in the market, such as the Arogya Sanjeevani Policy and the Lifeline Health Insurance Plan that offer protection at affordable rates and keep you covered against all possible contingencies.