Bayelsa state Government has ordered that no tricycle operating in the state should carry more than two passengers at a time to check the coronavirus pandemic.
This is contained in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary in the state’s Ministry of Transport, Arc. Ere Efeke, in Yenagoa on Tuesday.
Efeke said that the decision was part of the state government’s efforts at preventing the spread of the disease to the state.
Bayelsa does not have any coronavirus case at the moment.
The permanent secretary called on all boat and taxi operators to support government’s efforts at preventing coronavirus from entering the state.
“All buses shall carry a maximum of the driver and one passenger in front and two passengers per seat.
“Boat operators are to carry two passengers per seat, while taxi drivers are to carry two passengers per seat and one passenger in front,” he directed.
The official said that any one coughing, sneezing or showing any sign of respiratory infection should not be allowed into any commercial vehicle/boat.
“Keke, known as tricycle operators shall carry a maximum of two passengers at any time. Only the rider is allowed in the front,” he directed.
He said that all transport operators/companies were expected to have at their entrances, hand washing equipment with soap and running water.
“Get alcohol-based sanitisers in your vehicles for use of drivers, conductors and passengers.
“All taxis and buses shall keep and restock their vehicles with wipes, tissues or other disposeable items for use by passengers to wipe chairs, doors and other handles.
“None essential travel is hereby strongly discouraged. Use of electronic devices for communication should be preferred to journeys,” Efeke addedd.
The permanent secretary said the vehicle inspection officers of the state Ministry of Transport, transport unions and law enforcement agencies would be enforcing the directive.
“We enjoin the public to support the state government in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.
“In case of none compliance with this directive, by drivers, conductors and passengers, call us on 08184466666,” he urged.