As the fear of new coronavirus variant, Omicron, has gripped the city, the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) asked its 27 bus depots to check vaccination certificates before allowing passengers to board buses.
This development came after the Maharashtra government last weekend issued an order allowing only fully vaccinated passengers to travel by public transport.
The order was supposed to come into effect from Tuesday, November 27, however, it has not been implemented so far.
The commuters and bus conductors have raised doubt over its feasibility. A few conductors and bus drivers said that they were not aware of any such order and if implemented, it would create confusion. Considering the number of best workers and passengers, it is difficult to enforce it as checking and permitting passengers will lead to long queues at bus stops, particularly, during office hours.
Apart from them, kaali peeli taxi drivers have also raised their apprehension about the order and said that they have already suffered losses during the lockdowns. They can’t afford to allow only vaccinated commuters.
Moreover, taxi unions have stated that they have asked drivers to display a placard stating ‘no vaccination, no ride’ but said it is impossible for drivers to check vaccination certificates. Besides, all coronavirus protocols will be followed.
Meanwhile, passengers have stated that though allowing vaccinated passengers in buses and other public transport is a good measure, but the implementation is difficult.
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