In continuation of the revised consolidated guidelines on lockdown measures of 17th May, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued a revised Standard Operating Protocol (SOP) on the movement of stranded workers by trains.

The SOPs allow movement of stranded workers by trains as under:

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•  Ministry of Railways (MoR) would permit Movement of Shramik Special trains in consultation with MHA.
• All States/ UTs should designate nodal authorities and make necessary arrangements for receiving and sending such stranded persons.
• Based on the requirements of States/UTs, the train schedule, including stoppages and destination would be finalized by MoR. The same would be communicated by MoR to the States/UTs for making suitable arrangements for sending and receiving such stranded workers.
• Publicity of train schedule, protocols for entry and movement of passengers, services to be provided in coaches, and arrangements with States/UTs for booking of tickets would be done by MoR.
• Sending States/ UTs and MoR would ensure that all passengers are compulsorily screened and only asymptomatic passengers are allowed to board the train.
• Social distancing to be observed by all passengers during boarding and travel.
• On arrival at their destination, the travelling passengers will have to adhere to such health protocols as are prescribed by the destination State/ UT.