As more passengers are starting to use bus, tram and rail services, particularly at peak morning and evening periods, and although figures are still much lower than pre-pandemic levels, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has asked passengers to consider their options when travelling, and to respect Covid safety guidelines.
TfGM says that car journeys and active travel modes have almost returned to pre-pandemic levels, meaning a higher proportion of people are walking, cycling and using their own vehicles compared to public transport.
Passengers are being asked to plan ahead and consider travelling outside the peak periods if possible when services may be less busy. TfGM is working with operators to run as many services as possible and ensuring enhanced cleaning programmes are in place to keep vehicles, stops and stations clean.
Transport for Greater Manchester Customer Director, Stephen Rhodes, said: “Although still nowhere near the normal levels, the demand on our services is starting to increase and we have worked hard and introduced lots of measures to make sure the transport network is as safe, clean and reliable as possible.
“We would still urge people to cycle or walk to school, college or work if you can, and if using public transport to plan ahead and try to avoid peak hours at the start and end of each day to keep the load on roads and public transport down.
“It’s also vital that those who use the transport networks remember to follow the basic rules – wash your hands, wear a face covering, use contactless payment and try to try to maintain a distance of one metre wherever possible.
“We know that this is not always possible, particular as the peak periods start to get busier, which is why we are working with operators to run as many services as possible and ensuring vehicles, stops and stations are cleaned regularly.
“With infection rates across Greater Manchester rising and only essential travel advised in Oldham and Bolton, these simple measures can have a big impact – so let’s work together to stop the spread.”
