Sterilising an automobile to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — Transport companies will be exempt from service fees for the time being having cut back on passengers to minimise the spread of COVID-19.

Nguyễn Anh Toàn, director of the Hà Nội Transport Station Joint Stock Company (Transerco), said the decision also aimed to support transport companies during this difficult period.

Toàn confirmed that the Transerco would ensure preventive measures for every coach leaving bus station.

The measures include free face masks for passengers, sterilisers and regularly spraying sterilising substances.

A report by the Hà Nội Department of Transport showed the number of passengers in February was down significantly due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Passengers at the Giáp Bát, Mỹ Đình and Gia Lâm coach stations fell by 30-40 per cent, and tumbled 65 per cent at Nước Ngầm Station.

Transport by taxi was also down by 50-60 per cent and tourist passengers had fallen 70-80 per cent. Goods decreased by 30 per cent compared with the same period last year.

Transport companies have reduced their journeys and asked state management organisations to defer debts, tax, social insurance and fees for road maintenance.