Transport firms introduce new virus prevention measures
Transportation service providers and mobility firms are taking precautions against the novel coronavirus pneumonia outbreak.
Didi Chuxing said it has set up sanitation service stations in 148 domestic cities to provide drivers with masks and sterilizers, among other protective measures to help sanitize vehicles.
Both drivers and passengers are required to wear masks when taking rides. Drivers will also have their temperatures checked.
The company also urges drivers to comply with local government orders to make health declarations when returning from their hometowns.
Plastic protective screens between drivers and passengers are also being installed in vehicles on a trial basis in about a dozen cities.
A Shanghai driver surnamed Gu who works as a Shenzhou Zuche driver said, "We're willing to take voluntary measures at this moment even if there are no mandatory requests."
SAIC Motor’s mobility service Xiangdao Chuxing said that four quarantine service points have been established in Shanghai and similar projects are underway in neighboring cities like Suzhou, Kunshan, Hangzhou and Ningbo.
A Shanghai retired serviceman surnamed Yuan has become a volunteer driver this week as a part of a special fleet at Xiangdao Chuxing to pick up local medical staff to and from work.
“I have been designated to pick up a Ruijin Hospital doctor everyday at 6am so he can arrive at around 7am for the morning shift,” he told Shanghai Daily.
Shanghai is encouraging ride-sharing among co-workers and neighbors in order to reduce the use of public transportation.
Car pooling and taxi hailing service Dida also urged riders to make sure to share rides after making ample protection for themselves.
Dida drivers and passengers can also receive free insurance covering the NCP from Tencent's online insurance unit.