Cabinet approves new rules for train movement during alerts

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved new rules for the operation of railway transport, stations, and stops during air alerts. Train movement and passenger boarding procedures will now depend on the level of air threat — yellow or red.

This was announced by Prime Minister of Ukraine Serhiy Koretskyi. The relevant procedure is enshrined in government decree No. 1129 of September 15. The new rules should allow the railway to continue operations during prolonged drone attacks, while simultaneously enhancing safety measures in the event of a more serious threat.

Under the yellow level, which applies in the event of a drone threat, train movement, reception, and departure are permitted, as well as other railway technological operations. Boarding and alighting of passengers at stations, stops, and platforms will also continue.

Passengers will be able to decide for themselves whether to remain at the station or platform during a yellow-level alert. Railway staff are required to inform them of the current threat level and the location of the nearest shelters.

Under the red level, which is declared in the event of a missile, missile-drone, or massive drone threat, the procedure changes. Boarding and alighting at stations and stops will be suspended, and passengers, visitors, and railway employees must proceed to the nearest shelter.

At the same time, trains will not necessarily be automatically stopped during every red alert. The decision on the reception, departure, and passage of trains will be made by Ukrzaliznytsia taking into account traffic safety, the current situation, and the need to maintain continuity of transportation.

The company will also be able to temporarily restrict or completely suspend traffic on certain sections, disperse trains and passenger flows to avoid large concentrations of people and equipment in one place. If necessary, passengers and staff will be directed to shelters or other safe places away from railway infrastructure and rolling stock.

Stations will operate during curfew

Separate changes concern night travel. The Ministry of Internal Affairs has been instructed to ensure security at stations and stops operating around the clock, including during curfew.

Regional administrations and the Kyiv City State Administration must coordinate the operation of urban passenger transport with train schedules, including at night.

Passengers will be allowed to freely travel to and from railway stations and stops during curfew if they have a travel document.

Patrolling at stations and stops will also be strengthened. Police officers should help maintain order during boarding and alighting and when people move to shelters.

Ukrzaliznytsia must develop detailed instructions

The government has recommended that Ukrzaliznytsia approve within two weeks separate algorithms for staff actions under yellow and red threat levels, as well as prepare instructions for passengers.

Information about the threat level, rules of conduct, and routes to the nearest shelters must be conveyed through loudspeakers and information boards at stations, the company's official website, and mobile services.

Railway employees who may be on open infrastructure during a threat are planned to be additionally provided with personal protective equipment. In particular, train compilers and inspectors, drivers, conductors, and stewards should receive protective vests and helmets.

Earlier, the government introduced two levels of air threat. The yellow level applies mainly during drone attacks and allows some businesses and infrastructure to continue operating subject to safety requirements. The red level means an increased missile, combined, or massive drone threat and entails stricter restrictions.

Based on materials from: Serhiy Koretskyi, legislation of Ukraine