New Delhi, May 1: The Indian Railways on Friday extended the cancellation all passenger train services till May 17. The decision was taken after the Centre extended the coronavirus lockdown for two more weeks. The Indian railways said that the movement of migrant workers, pilgrims, tourists, students and other persons stranded at different places would be carried out by "Shramik Special" trains. Special Trains From Nasik to Lucknow, Jaipur to Patna, Kota to Hatia And More: Full List of Trains That Will Run Today to Ferry Migrants, Students, Tourists.

However, the freight and parcel train operations will continue as before. Each special train will carry around 1,000-1,200 people and the fare will by the state governments. The Railways also asked the state governments to make adequate arrangements for the screening of passengers at the respective destinations. The Indian Railways has begun operating ‘Shramik Special’ trains from May 1.

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CPRO, Central Railway said, "The special trains have been planned for nominated persons identified and registered by state govts." He added, "Only those passengers to board whom state govt officials will bring to railway stations. No other persons under any circumstance to come to railway stations."

Earlier in the day, the central government announced the extension of the nationwide lockdown till May 17. The MHA issued the order under the Disaster Management Act, 2005. It also gave a list of what will remain open and shut in red, orange and green zones.  Exercising the powers conferred under the Disaster Management Act, Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla said the movement of migrant workers, pilgrims, tourists, students and other persons stranded at different places is allowed by special trains to be operated by the Ministry of Railways (MoR).

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 01, 2020 09:23 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).