India’s first private train Tejas Express is set to resume operations from October 17, almost seven months after the services were stopped due to COVID-19. Of course, the operations resume with several guidelines including the mandatory use of masks and Aarogya Setu app for all users. The IRCTC said that every alternate seat on the two trains- Lucknow-New Delhi and Ahmedabad-Mumbai- will be kept vacant. 

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All passengers boarding the train will be thermally screened before entering the coach and will not be allowed to exchage their seats once seated. IRCTC said that passengers will be provided a "COVID-19 protection kit". It will contain a bottle of hand sanitizers, one mask, one face shield and one pair of gloves. 

"Use of face covers/masks will be mandatory for passengers and staff. All travellers will install Arogya Setu app and same shall be shown as and when demanded. Detailed instructions will be given to the passengers at the time of booking of tickets," IRCTC said, outlining the SOP to be followed during the initial period because of the pandemic. 

Assuring the passengers of their safety, IRCTC said that all areas in the train including the pantry areas and lavatories, will be disinfected at regular intervals. The luggage and baggage of the passengers will also be disinfected by a staff. 

It is believed that IRCTC will suspend dynamic pricing on the train for the time being and have fixed maximum fare till the pandemic is over. The maximum fare of AC chair car will be Rs 1500 while for Executive Class, the maximum fare will be Rs 2,470 excluding GST. 

Restarting of services of the Tejas Express will help passengers travelling during the festive season. Those who will travel during Navratra, can get special vegetarian food on demand. Tea, snacks, meal services will be provided to the passengers as per travelling time of the train. Packaged drinking water and unlimited service of tea/coffee will be available to the passengers, IRCTC said.