Bus drivers should wear masks at all times and not just at bus stands because LTA is monitoring - Shah

The Fiji Bus Operators Association is urging bus drivers to wear masks at all times as they have been seen taking off their masks once they leave the Suva Bus Stand.

The Land Transport Authority and the Suva City Council are monitoring if drivers and passengers are wearing their masks and are maintaining physical distancing in the bus.

Association President, Nisar Ali Shah says drivers have to be responsible enough and look after themselves as most bus companies have provided their drivers with the masks.

He says it is not right for the employees to not follow the directives that could stop the virus from spreading.

Shah has also highlighted that passengers should not board the bus if they see that it has reached 50% capacity and has reiterated that people should not be going into towns or cities if they do not have a valid reason.

Meanwhile, Shah has highlighted that bus operators can suspend their services depending on the number of passengers that are boarding their buses daily.

He says it will not be profitable to take a trip that only has one or two passengers and this will also reduce foot traffic in places such as towns and at the bus stops.

The Association President says bus companies are providing shuttle services within the containment area.

Bus companies such as Nair’s Transport in Nakasi, Raiwaqa Buses in the Suva area and Shore Buses in Lami are operating within their containment areas.