Pune: In a major relief, the state government recently allowed resumption of local train services in Pune region in its new Unlock 5.0.

Since the lockdown was imposed around the country on March 23, all the train services in the Pune railway division had stopped its operations. Now, nearly after six months the local trains are recommencing its service in the region which is a major transport hub for people travelling between Pune and Lonavala on daily basis. An ‘action plan’ letter was already sent by Amitabh Gupta, Pune police commissioner who is the nodal officer to coordinate train operations in the region to the Pune railway division.

Manoj Jhawar, Pune railway division spokesperson talking to The Bridge Chronicle, “As per the instructions given by the commissioner of police, the preparations are underway to begin local train service on the Pune-Lonavala route from mid-October. The train service is restricted only for those people who are working in essential services, other than this sector, no person is allowed to travel. It is mandatory to get the e-pass with QR code for travelling.”

“Also, only local services will resume, no Demu passenger train will ply. Apart from that all the safety measures to maintain social distancing and curtail the spread of COVID-19 will be taken by the railway authorities,” he added.

The e-pass will cover all the personal details required for travelling such as to and fro locations. These QR code will be scanned at entry gates to verify the authenticity of the traveller.