Public transport is one of the last places in which wearing a mask is compulsory. Do passengers still respect this instruction? And are there still controls?
The place is one of the very last where wearing a mask is compulsory. Inside a Brussels tram this morning, a large majority of travelers wear it. And sometimes around them, some distracted or misinformed.
“I was told it’s over and I heard once on the bus that it’s over too”, testifies a passenger. “I forgot my mask”admits man.
For other commuters, the mask left in the pocket is a choice. Exceptions assumed, but which often provoke reactions.
“When you don’t put it on, there is a kind of social pressure. On the one hand it’s embarrassing not to have it, but on the other hand I feel better not having it and in the end I think there are other issues elsewhere more important now than the mask”, says a young woman. An argument far from convincing all travelers. “I think it’s really useful. I believe in its usefulness and we are rightly asked to do so”, hammers another passenger.
During the month of February, 139 fines were issued by STIB agents for not wearing a mask. Most of the refractory refused the simple remark that was made to them.
For the time being, this mask is still imposed inside trains, buses and metros for specific reasons. “We must still remain vigilant because Omicron is still present. A good ten thousand people are officially diagnosed every day. Many more because the rapid tests which are not listed and therefore the virus circulates. In certain confined places, the risk is always present, says Yves Van Laethem, interfederal spokesperson for the fight once morest the coronavirus.
During the next consultation committee on April 22, the obligation of the mask in public transport might be discussed. An update will also be made on the situation of hospitals and pharmacies.
