Enter through the front and sit in the front seats, Prague public transport changes from today

Prague’s public transport authority has announced that it will restore its “standard bus and tram passenger handling regime” as of today.

A number of restrictions were implemented throughout Prague’s public transport network from March to protect passengers and drivers from the spread of the coronavirus on public transport.

Those included a strict face mask-wearing policy, the automatic opening and closing of doors, and the cordoning off of the seating area in the front of the bus near the driver. Today some of those restrictions are being lifted.

In a press release, DPP officials said: “From Monday, June 8, 2020, DPP will renew the standard passenger handling regime on all city bus and tram lines. Passengers will also be able to enter the vehicles again through the front door and the previously locked front rows of seats will be released for them.”

Additional changes from today: Drivers will no longer automatically open the door at each stop, passengers must press the appropriate button to get on or off and open the door. Evening operation of bus lines number 149 , 150 , 170, and  176 will also resume.

The face mask rule, however, remains firmly in place throughout Prague’s entire public transport system: “The obligation of passengers to have their noses and mouths covered during the entire stay in the public transport premises continues to apply, and the cancellation of additional ticket sales with the driver on city bus lines also remains in force,” DPP officials said in a statement.