Coronavirus: Delhi Metro suspends services till March 31

New Delhi: In order to curb the Coronavirus spread, as New Delhi braces for a lockdown beginning Monday evening, Delhi Metro has also decided to suspend services completely till March 31. On Monday, the metro services will only be available for six hours. "As per the latest decision in the fight against Coronavirus, it has been decided that metro service will remain completely closed till March 31, 2020," DMRC (Delhi Metro Rail Corporation) said in an official release.

Delhi Metro suspending services to control Coronavirus spread

"The move is aimed at controlling the spread of corona virus by ensuring social distancing and encouraging people to stay at home for the time being," the statement said. The Delhi Metro system will, however, continue to be powered for essential internal operational maintenance activities during this duration and security of the system will continue to be taken care of by CISF.

Noida-Greater Noida metro and bus services also suspended

Along with Delhi Metro, Noida-Greater Noida metro and city bus services will also be suspended till March 31. On March 22, Delhi Metro had suspended services from 7 am to 9 pm after Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a call to citizens to observe a self-imposed curfew, dubbed Janata curfew, to contain the spread of Coronavirus. "In the wake of 'Janata Curfew' to be observed this Sunday i.e, on 22nd March 2020, DMRC has decided to keep its services closed. The move is aimed at encouraging public to stay indoors and maintain social distancing, which is essential in the fight against Covid-19," DMRC said in a tweet.

Lockdown in 75 affected districts

At a meeting of Chief Secretaries of states held on March 22, it was decided that a complete lockdown will be put into place in 75 districts across India to curb the spread of the virus. These districts have either reported confirmed cases or casualties relating to COVID-19. Only essential services will be allowed in these districts.

The Indian Railways has also stopped all trains till March 31.

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