Delhi: Taking a cue from government departments, including public transport, the Indian Railways has swung into action to protect railway passengers from coronavirus.
A senior official in Northern Zone (Delhi Division) told CitySpidey that many zones such as Southern Railways, Western Railways, Northern Railways etc. have come up with a decision to not provide blankets to passengers in AC coaches.
The official further said that all the zonal railways have been instructed to put notices and stickers in coaches to spread a message to the passengers of all classes.
"Decision to withdraw blankets have been taken keeping in mind the safety of passengers. Blankets will not be provided to passengers. In case, passengers who still need a blanket, may please approach the attendant," the official in Northern Railway zone said.
Similarly, the Central Railway zone has taken a slew of initiative in cleaning the blankets and other linen used by the passengers during the journey. All blankets will be soaked at high temperatures in the tumble dryers of the laundries.
The high temperature varies between 75-80 degrees Celsius. This high temperature soak can be supplemented by UV light immersion.
The railways said in a statement that all blankets used by passengers will be segregated in separate linen bags. They will be soaked at a high temperature before being distributed again.
The railways will pay special attention to segregation of stained hand towels and their washing. The railways have advised the linen attendants to keep a vigil in trains, especially on those with cold/cough symptoms, and the linen items used by such passengers.
