As the Coronavirus-related restrictions are eased from Monday, Transport for London has announced that the capacity of buses will be doubled from next Monday with most seats now able be used.

All but the rear-facing seats will be allowed, meaning the the capacity of most double-deckers increasing to around 60 people.

The organisation is reassuring people that using public transport is safe, pointing to statistics which show that, despite extensive testing by Imperial College since September, no trace of coronavirus has been found. The researchers have been swabbing touch points in stations and on buses and have also tested the air in ticket halls.

More than 1,000 hand sanitisers are installed across the network, and 200 UV light devices are continually sanitising escalator handrails. 

The transport network is also well ventilated. Train and bus doors opening frequently ensures a regular exchange of air across the public transport network, while the constant movement of trains draws fresh air into the system. In the deeper Tube lines, ventilation shafts and fans supplement this air movement. Buses, which are cleaned daily, have been modified to keep windows propped open and are also fitted with a range of air extraction and ventilation systems. These systems, in conjunction with leaving windows open and the frequent opening of doors, ensure the flow of fresh air through the vehicle.

(Picture – Yay Images)