Coronavirus: Helsinki buses stop selling tickets on board

Helsinki Region Transport (HSL) is introducing precautions to prevent the spread of the coronavirus (koronavirus, in Finnish), reported the city of Helsinki on Friday.

According to HSL, routes will continue to operate normally, but modes of transport and stations will now be disinfected more thoroughly and bus drivers will no longer sell tickets on the bus to passengers.

The enhanced cleaning and disinfection activities will apply to all trains, metros, buses and stations, with special attention devoted to surfaces that are heavily used, such as handrails.

"Starting on the 13 March, drivers of buses that serve the city will no longer sell tickets on the bus to avoid handling money and direct contact with the passengers," the city of Helsinki emphasized in its website.

Avoid using public transport

HSL also asked the public to avoid "unnecessary use of public transport, so it remains safe for those people who are dependent on it." Helsinki authorities say biking and walking are the best alternatives.

The public transport service also recommends employees to work remotely, if possible, and that customers who must travel do so outside the hours of 7-9 am and 3-6 pm.

HSL says they are closely following the official recommendations and guidelines of Finland’s governmental and health authorities to face the crisis caused by the spread of Covid-19.