Following a new regulation issued by Colombia’s Health Ministry allowing a boost in public-transport passenger capacity, Metro de Medellin announced September 3 it’s switching to a 50% limit on capacity – up from 35% previously.

Both limits are designed to help thwart Covid-19 cross infections by reducing crowding, according to Metro and the Health Ministry. The new, higher-capacity limits likely won’t boost infections, they say, citing a new joint study by Colombia’s Universidad Nacional and the Transport Ministry.

This study found that even at 50% capacity, “public transport systems do not constitute sources of spread of Covid-19 if practices such as the correct and permanent use of masks covering the nose and mouth, keeping quiet and not speaking on cell phones, adequate ventilation and disinfection of transport systems both at the beginning, during and after the trip, among other practices,” according to Metro.

“To increase the occupation of trains, trams, cable cars and buses to 50%, the Medellín Metro will continue its operation with all of its available fleet and will maintain all the prevention measures that have been applied since arrival of the Covid-19 to the country, and will intensify the disinfection and cleaning routines,” according to Metro.

At bus stations and boarding platforms, Metro will enforce social distancing and provide “educational guides that will support the operation of the stations and guide users in their movements,” according to the agency.

“All biosafety regulations and prevention measures such as controls at the entrance from the station by the Police and Metro personnel will be preserved,” according to Metro.

“Given the possibility of the arrival of more users, it is recommended to schedule trips with more time in advance, arrive with the ‘Cívica’ [boarding pass] recharged.

“As of September 1, the northern access to the Alpujarra station has been enabled between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. for the entry and exit of passengers. Likewise, from Tuesday, September 8, service will be enabled on the Arví cable. That day the Arví Park will also open.”

“Metro reiterates that the use of a mask is mandatory and permanent for all passengers. It is important to keep in mind that its correct use completely seals the air intake through the upper part of the nose, through the sides of the cheeks and under the chin, which guarantees better protection against the virus.

“Passengers are also asked to remain silent during the journeys to avoid the emission of aerosols and droplets of saliva that can carry the virus and generate potential infections.

“When entering the system, it is recommended to make use of the portable hand washing points and gel dispensers located in the stations. Likewise, practice physical distancing in lines, while waiting for vehicles and inside them,” the agency added.