Just recently, Penang announced their new speedboat ferry service for pedestrians, as the old ferries would be used to operate for motorcycle and bicycle transportation through the sea route.
While many were excited, no one expected the service to be this problematic at such an early stage of operation.
Penang Kini took to their Facebook page to point out the lack of physical distancing among pedestrians who have to take the speedboats.
They wrote, “Bring back our ferries. The Consumer’s Association of Penang (CAP) has found that the execution of the speedboat transportation system in Penang has been done without the consideration of multiple important factors that is troublesome for pedestrians.”
Some of the images showcased pedestrians crowding together in a waiting area and the small cabin for passengers on the speedboat, both of which look rather uncomfortable due to the small space that seems insufficient for physical distancing among a large group of people.
“What’s most worrying is the lack of physical distancing throughout the journey process from the speedboat, to the shuttle bus that is arranged to carry passengers to the bus station in Weld Quay,” they added.
While the speedboat service for pedestrians certainly is a great idea, we are in a pandemic and certain measures must be supervised and enforced thoroughly.
We genuinely hope that the authorities look into better enforcing Covid-19 standard operating procedures (SOPs) in public transportation.
What do you think about this? Let us know in the comment section.
Also read: Crowds Of Shoppers Rush To Buy Groceries in Penang Before PMās Announcement
