ScotRail is reminding customers that the wearing of face coverings remains mandatory in stations and on trains, as the Edinburgh Festival kicked off last weekend.
The legal requirement for physical distancing was removed on Monday, 9 August, however the requirement to wear a face covering on public transport will remain for a period.
In order for passengers and railway staff alike to feel as safe as possible on trains and in stations, ScotRail is promoting a ‘Wear one, protect everyone’ message.
The Edinburgh Festival is the world’s largest arts festival; however, this year sees a scaled back version of the event.
To help festival-goers travel to and from the capital city smoothly, ScotRail is adding additional carriages to as many trains as possible, as well as running additional late night services throughout the event.
Customers are reminded that ongoing industrial action continues to impact services on Sundays, and should plan their journey in advance.
The train operator is also continuing with its enhanced cleaning of trains and stations, which has helped keep train travel safe through the pandemic.
Customers are encouraged to purchase their tickets through the ScotRail app as part of the mTickets system. This means people can buy their tickets from the comfort of their home, or on the way to the station and it will instantly become available on their mobile device.
Phil Campbell, ScotRail Head of Customer Operations, said:
“This year’s Edinburgh Festival may have a different look and feel to it, but we’re still helping customers make the most of it.
“Although physical distancing restrictions are easing, the wearing of a face covering is still required when travelling with us. We’re asking customers to do the right thing and wear one, to protect everyone.
“We’re continuing to provide a safe and reliable service and will be adding extra seats and services throughout the Festival. However, customers should continue to take personal responsibility for how they travel, and if they think a train is too busy then they should wait for the next service.”