COVID-19: Gov Sanwo-Olu Announces New Sitting Arrangement In Lagos Buses As State Eases Lockdown

The Lagos state government has announced new rules as state eases coronavirus lockdown.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has announced a new sitting arrangement for all public buses operating in Lagos as the state prepares to ease its lockdown order from May 4, 2020.

Sanwo-Olu said the popular Bus Rapid Transit in the state would be restricted to loading at maximum of 60% of its full capacity.

This implies that not more than 60 passengers would be allowed at a time in a bus capable of transporting 100 persons.

“All buses must be loaded at 60% capacity. In practical terms, if seating capacity is 10, only 6 people are allowed. Transport operators/companies must have handwashing equipment with running water and soap. Social distancing is also required while queuing up,” he said.

The governor announced the new directive while briefing residents on the plan to ease the Coronavirus lockdown in the state.

Sanwo-Olu also banned the use of air conditioners in public transportation as part of efforts to slow down the spread of the virus in the state.

He stressed that the use of face mask was mandatory in public for residents, including drivers and conductors of public transportation.

Sanwo-Olu said transport operators were also expected to sanitize their vehicles, parks and garages regularly before and after every trip.

He added that the operators must provide hand washing equipment with running water and temperature readers to test every passenger at the entrance of their respective parks.

“All operators are expected to have alcohol-based sanitizers in their vehicles for drivers, conductors and passengers.

“All motor parks and garages must avoid overcrowding.

“Social distancing is required for passengers queuing up to board buses,” he said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu also barred tricycles operating in unrestricted areas from carrying more than two passengers per trip.

The governor’s directives came after President Muhammadu Buhari, on Monday, ordered the “phased and gradual” easing of the lockdown order in Lagos, Ogun and the FCT, effective from May 4.