With the decision to open up service of Gurugram Metropolitan City Bus Limited (GMCBL) in July 2020 post lockdown, GMCBL, a public transport service provider has been focussing on keeping the bus rides safe for passengers and the crew. 

Challenge is to keep the passenger count to just 18 riders per bus at peak times and at other times look to garner ridership.

By following safety measures such as temperature scanning of commuters, entry for passengers wearing masks, entry through one gate, limiting passengers to 18 people (50% of seating capacity) on each bus, seats marked to be kept vacant to maintain physical distancing on bus among commuters, provision of foot pedal sanitiser near entry gate for passengers, GMCBL has been able to instil confidence among people to use the service.

 Further, Passenger Advisory has been pasted on buses and at four major bus stops for prevention and awareness about Covid-19 safe precautions. In line with the Government guidelines, SOPs were drawn up for the various teams manning the operations. Specific guidelines were drafted for each team, Depot Managers, Customer Service Agents (CSAs), Drivers, and also for Passengers.

 CSAs were specially trained to follow the Covid-19 protocols while performing their duties on bus to keep the passengers safe.

In addition, steps taken to boost ridership in GMCBL service during the pandemic.

⦁ Focussing on providing safety measures for passengers riding on Gurugaman bus has instilled confidence among riders.

⦁ Provision of hands-free sanitisers on bus, acting on the suggestion of a commuter on social media.

⦁ Providing safe travel option with temperature scanning of commuters, entry for passengers wearing masks, limiting passengers to 18 people (50% of seating capacity) on each bus and seats marked to be kept vacant to maintain physical distancing among commuters.

⦁ Six key Routes 212, 134D, 112D, 116F, 122 and 218 are in operation to serve the people as far as Sohna, Manesar, Basai, Rajesh Pilot Chowk, Iffco Chowk, Gurugram Bus Stand, Railway Station, etc. 

⦁ Passenger advisory pasted on major bus stops and on each bus has helped in gaining the confidence of passengers who talk about their safe bus journeys.

⦁ Gurugaman App-based information is available to riders on where and when the bus will arrive at the stop

⦁ Making residents of Gurugram aware of the operational routes by sending Bulk SMS messages.

⦁ Postings on Social Media about passengers’ safe bus journeys has created awareness and helped in increasing ridership.

⦁ Listening to commuters’ feedback/ suggestions on Helpline, complaints platform and social media has earned the trust of passengers resulting in increase in ridership.

⦁ CSAs and Drivers have been trained to follow safety protocols as laid down in SOP guidelines