Safe Distancing Stickers Removed On MRTs & Bus Stops From 2 Jun
As the ‘Circuit Breaker’ lifts tomorrow, some workers may – or may not – be looking forward to returning to their offices again.
The increase in commuters could mean that buses and trains may begin getting crowded again.
Thus, safe-distancing stickers that have become a familiar sight for close to 2 months since 9 Apr will also be removed, shared Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan on Monday (1 Jun).
Mr Khaw outlined what the public can expect as part of gradual & careful easing of public transport measures when the ‘Circuit Breaker’ ends in a Facebook post as follows.
Physical distancing will be difficult once crowds return
During the ‘Circuit Breaker’, commuter numbers fell and safe distancing was possible. But when commuters return on 2 Jun, it will be “more challenging”, said Minister Khaw.
And since the safe distancing will be more difficult, he added,
the green and orange stickers will be removed as physical distancing will be difficult once the crowds return.
Mask-wearing is necessary all the time
Since safe distancing will not be possible always, masks need to be worn at all times, Mr Khaw said.
This is in line with guidelines imposed by the Land Transport Authority in April, stipulating that commuters not wearing masks will not be allowed to board buses, trains, taxis & private-hire vehicles.
Khaw advises commuters to use SafeEntry system
Mr Khaw also advised commuters to check in and check out with the SafeEntry system, which will help in contact tracing efforts if an infected person has been near you.
The system, which involves scanning a QR code and filling in your particulars online, has been implemented in places like malls and supermarkets before entry.
These QR codes have now appeared in bus interchanges, MRT stations and even inside taxis.
While it’s not compulsory yet, it’s a good safety measure to take part in while on-the-go.
Mr Khaw has also urged Singaporeans to work from home if they can, and avoid peak hours if they need to go out.
Do not talk on public transport
Another practice that Mr Khaw has advised commuters to adopt is to keep quiet on public transport.
While it may be tough to maintain silence throughout your whole journey, it’s probably for the best. According to a report by Forbes, talking is a way that Covid-19 can be transmitted.
Easing back into a new normal
As Singapore eases back to normal, the retaining of measures like mask-wearing and the using of SafeEntry shows that we aren’t getting back to life pre-Covid-19 just yet.
To avoid the number of new cases rising and another painful ‘Circuit Breaker’, we can’t let our guard down just yet.
Staying cautious, abiding by the rules and continuing to observe personal hygiene will go a long way in keeping us safe.
We have gotten this far, let’s keep pressing on till the end.
Featured image adapted from Facebook.
