In a new statement released this week, Hungarian national rail and bus companies, MÁV and Volánbusz, are announcing stricter policies regarding wearing masks. Since 4 May, everyone riding public transport has been required to wear a face-covering such as a mask, scarf or shawl, and those who fail to comply receive warnings. From 15 September, the transgressions will not be forgiven: those not covering up will be asked to disembark immediately.
The railway, along with the Készenléti (“Standby”) Police Force and other security personnel have inspected more than 6,100 trains since August, says MÁV. Passengers and staff are both required to wear a protective face covering, and employees have so far been provided more than one million masks, 1.5 million gloves and 60,000 litres of hand sanitiser.
From 15 September, travel conditions will be tightened, and bus drivers will be obliged to refuse boarding if the passenger is not wearing a mask or other appropriate face covering. Throughout the trip, ticket inspectors will continue to check for compliance. Volánbusz is asking police to take action if a passenger refuses to cover his mouth and nose, in which case fines may be imposed ranging from 10,000-50,000 forints. Police will also be checking bus stations to ensure passengers are wearing their masks.
The full Hungarian statement can be read here.
