28 April,2020 06:50 AM IST | Mumbai | The Editorial
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The fight against Coronavirus is a constantly evolving one and is mainly reactive at the present moment in many contexts.
The BEST authorities are putting into place a plan which reduces the number of conductors in the few big, reds plying the city.
This is because, as a report stated in this newspaper, a few from the BEST workforce have contracted the Coronavirus. They are now going to run buses, some being already operational in this manner, with a driver and no conductor. The commuters will have to pay at the end of the journey.
It is important that the few passengers we see in buses today, follow rules whether there is a conductor or not. Maintain social distance in the bus, even if there is no conductor to enforce this.
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Adults must know that the distancing is mandated for their safety and the security of their family too, so one surely does not and should not need somebody literally telling them to observe social distancing.
Ride in the bus wearing a mask, and do not slip it off your face or hang it around the neck during the journey. Do get on at the proper stop and follow correct etiquette even while alighting. Do pay the correct fare for the journey you took.
We must recognise that this is special, though necessary, service for workers and those providing essential services, thus necessitating commuting during these times.
The report also cited a BEST Kamghar Sanghatna official opposed to keeping conductors out, saying this was a ruse to start one-man operations amid Coronavirus.
Dialogue must ensure that there is transparency and talks within the Undertaking which is facing so many challenges - Coronavirus or not. May all do the BEST for Mumbai.
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