Workers asked to avoid peak-hour journeys to avert school travel rush

Commuters were today urged to walk or cycle to avoid buses and trains becoming overwhelmed at peak hours when schools return this week.

Ministers have launched a new Travel Safe campaign which also called on people to continue working from home where possible.

Capacity on buses and trains remains severely restricted because of the need for distancing between passengers, even though this has been reduced from 2 metres to 1m.

The number of ScotRail journeys made in the week to Sunday, 2 August was 75 per cent lower than a year ago, while those by free bus pass holders was down by 65 per cent.

By contrast, car journeys were only 10 per cent lower than last year.

Cycling was up by 5 per cent but walking down by 35 per cent.

Douglas Cairns, operations support manager for the Scottish Government-run information service Traffic Scotland, said: “While it’s welcome news that schools are re-opening, it will put pressure on our road network and our public transport system as physical distancing rules are still in place.

“The Travel Safe campaign is asking commuters to help us keep Scotland moving by only travelling if you need to, and working from home if you can.

“If you do need to travel please walk, wheel or cycle wherever possible.

“You could also look to make your journey outside of the peak times.

“You can find up-to-date travel information on the Traffic Scotland website and Twitter page, allowing you to plan ahead and check your route before you set off.

“Travel advice is also available on the Transport Scotland website.”

Transport Secretary Michael Matheson also urged people to consider walking, wheeling and cycling for the school run.

He said: “By choosing active travel, it benefits our health, protects the environment and helps manage demand on public transport.

“Let’s leave space on public transport for those that need it most.

“Practice good hand hygiene and remember that face coverings remain mandatory on public transport to help stop the spread of Covid-19.”