THE GIST of Editorial for UPSC Exams : 18 May 2020 (Back on the move (Indian Express))

Back on the move (Indian Express)

Mains Paper 3: Economy
Prelims level: Public transport system
Mains level: Measures taken towards reopening the public transport system

Context:

• In his address to the nation on Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi indicated that Lockdown 4 will be very different from the previous versions.
• A day earlier, during his video conference with chief ministers, PM Modi had asked states for suggestions on the economic activities that should be allowed after May 17.

Response from states:

• In response, the Delhi government has proposed a slew of bold measures, including re-opening markets and shopping complexes with outlets selling non-essential items functioning on an odd-even basis.
• A significant section of Delhi’s proposals pertains to public transport. These include a “limited” resumption of metro and bus services.
• Meanwhile, the Centre is also reportedly framing social distancing guidelines with a view to resuming public transport. These are steps in the right direction. The rules and guidelines for Lockdown 4 must focus on the safe mobility of people who do not own personal vehicles.

Other Nations:

• Amongst the nations that have opened up after asking people to stay at home for several weeks, China’s example could be pertinent for India because of comparable demographics.
• Wuhan, once the epicentre of the pandemic, for instance, resumed bus services in a calibrated manner — to begin with, 30 per cent of the city’s fleet was deployed and supervisors ensured that commuters .............................................

CLICK HERE FOR FULL EDITORIAL (Only for Course Members)

Safety measures:

• Delhi’s pitch for the resumption of public transport, reportedly, rests on a range of safety measures. Passengers will be requested by marshals and conductors to not board buses carrying over 25 people.
• This approach is reasonable, to begin with — the dangers of overcrowding cannot be overstated during the pandemic.
• However, given the overwhelming dependence of the working class on public transit systems, authorities will have to be creative with the protocols. Buses in the Chinese city have earmarked places where passengers can stand.

Conclusion:

• During the pandemic, Indian cities, too, will have to find ways to ensure the availability of public transport for people who use it the most, without compromising on safety.
• In reopening public transport, ensure that services are made accessible to those who need them most.

  Online Coaching for UPSC PRE Exam

  General Studies Pre. Cum Mains Study Materials

Prelims Questions:

Q1. With reference to the Elongated tortoise/ Sal forest tortoise, consider the following statements:
1. According to a recent study by ecologists in the Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, over 90% of the potential distribution of the Sal forest tortoise falls outside current protected area’s network.
2. It is listed as vulnerable on IUCN Red list.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer:

CLICK HERE FOR FULL EDITORIAL (Only for Course Members)

Mains Questions:
Q1. What are the key measures .......................................?