Train operator's plea to passengers – only travel by rail during pandemic if journey is essential and follow guidelines on physical distancing
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
SCOTRAIL is asking customers to follow Scottish Government guidelines on physical distancing and play their part in saving lives, as new measures are introduced across the network.
ScotRail has been running a key worker timetable since lockdown, aimed at helping NHS staff, care workers and others get to work.
The rail operator has today reminded customers they should only take the train if travel is essential.
Everyone else should follow government guidance to stay at home.
Transport minister Michael Matheson has announced a Rail Recovery Task Force is planning for future increase in services whenever lockdown measures are eased.
Major stations will have floor markings and other signs to outline a safe distance of two metres, while some station facilities such as waiting rooms will be closed.
Platform markings indicating two metres and guidance at ticket vending machines will also be supported by station announcements and messages on customer information screens.
Passengers who do travel with ScotRail are also being urged to use face coverings at stations and on trains.
It will take longer to buy tickets at a station and board a train, and there may be occasions when it is not possible to board a train in busier times. David Simpson, ScotRail operations director, said: “Scotland’s railway has played a critical role during one of the biggest challenges this country has ever faced, and we need our customers to help keep people safe.
“The message remains the same: people should only travel when it is essential to do so and we need everyone to take personal responsibility – if you think it’s not safe to board a train, don’t do it and wait for another service.
“We have signs in place to help with physical distancing, announcements being made at stations and on trains, and our staff will be on hand with advice and support.
“But there are limits to what ScotRail can do to manage this. It is essential that everyone works with us to help people stay safe.”
Related: Transition plans being considered
