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Journalism of Courage
In view of the ‘Janata curfew‘ on Sunday, the Indian Railways has cancelled 1,300 long distance and 2,400 passenger trains scheduled for the day. However, the trains which have started their journey would be allowed to reach their destination.
Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) said the passengers who wish to stay at stations during the ‘Janata curfew’ would be accommodated at stations and waiting areas.
IRCTC has also decided to shut food plazas, refreshment rooms, kitchens, and other static units for an indefinite period to discourage non-essential travels across India. Onboard catering services would also remain suspended from Sunday in the wake of coronavirus pandemic in the country. Only packaged items, like snacks, tea and coffee may be served if there is a demand.
Railways have requested the catering contractors to “take care of the staff on humanitarian ground” during the time of closure.
On Thursday, the Railways had cancelled 84 more trains between March 20 to March 31. “All passengers having tickets in cancelled trains are being informed about it individually. No cancellation fee will be taken for these trains. Passengers will get 100-per cent refund,” an official said.
All concessions, except those to students, patients and disabled, in Indian Railways have also been suspended to discourage non-essential travel. This means that all other train concessions, like senior citizens, farmers, war widows, VIPs, delegates, etc. stand suspended for now.
The government has tightened the lockdown further, banning the landing of all international commercial passenger flights for a week from March 22.
In his address to the nation Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had cautioned against complacency on the coronavirus pandemic while asking people to observe a self-imposed curfew on Sunday by not stepping out of homes between 7 am and 9 pm. He also reassured people against shortages, saying there was no need for hoarding.
In a nearly 30-minute telecast, he said the March 22 ‘Janata Curfew’ would be a test of people’s “self-discipline” in fighting the virus. The only exception to the curfew would be doctors, media and providers of other essential services, and the PM urged people to thank them for five minutes at 5 pm on March 22 by ringing bells, clapping or other means.
Here’s a quick coronavirus guide for you to stay updated: Who all should be tested for Covid-19 and when? | How should you quarantine yourself? | How often (and how) should you clean your home? | What is the Janata Curfew announced by PM Modi? | Who are restricted from coming to India, and from when? | How long can the virus live on surfaces or in air around you? | Still more Coronavirus Q&A Explained news here
