Public transport passenger numbers fall by up to 75% due to Covid-19

Passenger numbers on public transport have fallen by up to 75% because of the Covid-19 crisis according to the National Transport Authority (NTA).

However, the NTA intends to maintain "the vast majority of services" provided by Iarnród Éireann, Dublin Bus, Bus Éireann, Go Ahead Ireland, Luas and Local Link.

The drop-off has been recorded in preliminary figures compiled by the NTA comparing current usage to equivalent levels in 2019.

It found that daily numbers are down across all types of transport with the reduction ranging from 70% to 75%.

However, it is believed that the NTA and health authorities want to keep services at existing levels as the fewer numbers using public transport will allow greater levels of social distancing.

The NTA says it will continue to monitor transport patterns in conjunction with the operator through an internal coordination group which meets daily and any decisions made will be guided by the National Public Health Emergency Team and Chief Medical Officer.

HSE information is being displayed on buses, trams and trains, in stations and on information displays across the country.

All customer service channels will remain open and are being monitored by public transport staff.

The NTA says it has been told that all public transport vehicles and stations are being cleaned in accordance with infection control measures as issued by the Health Surveillance Protection Centre.