MHA allows operation of special trains for movement of migrant workers

In a first since the lockdown began, the Union government is gearing up for the mass inter-state movement of stranded workers, students and pilgrims via special non-stop trains. As per the guidelines, the Ministry of Railways will designate nodal officers for coordinating with states and union territories for the movement of migrants.

New Delhi: The Ministry of Home Affairs issued fresh guidelines, on Friday, allowing the movement of stranded migrant workers, pilgrims, tourists, students and other persons by Special Trains.

In an official order, it stated, "Movement of migrant workers, pilgrims, tourists, students and other persons stranded at different places, is also allowed by special trains to be operated by Ministry of Railways."

MHA order facilitating inter-state movement of migrant workers

As per the guidelines, Ministry of Railways will designate nodal officers for coordinating with states and union territories for the movement of migrants. Railways will also issue detailed guidelines for sale of tickets and for social distancing, and other safety measures to be observed at train stations, train platforms and within the trains.

Read:Special train with 1,200 migrants departs from Hyderabad for Jharkhand

Earlier on Friday, a one-off special train was run early to transport more than 1200 stranded migrants from Lingampalli, Telangana to Jharkhand's Hatia.

"Some zonal railways have received requests from state governments to run special trains. We are considering that," said Railway Ministry in a statement.

According to the sources, all the General Managers of Railway zones have been asked to communicate with the State Chief Secretaries regarding the running of special trains for migrants.

On arrival, persons would be assessed by local health authorities and will be kept in home quarantine fora required time frame. Also, they would have to undergo periodic health check-ups.