Transport for London’s new app to aid social distancing

In August 2020, Transport for London (TfL) launched a new app to support people to choose routes and times that will help them to maintain physical distancing. The app, known as TfL Go is currently an iPhone app with plans to release an Android version - alongside further updates and new features during the autumn months.

The app gives users a range of information including;

• Details and recommendations of best routes options,
• When to ensure travelling outside peak hours
• Information to support social distancing
• Additionally, the app provides alternative walking and cycling options.

The app also provides a “step-free” mode to allow users to view the stations layout and get assistance for step-free access from the street to the platform and for interchanges between lines. The app provides information about the width of gaps between the platform and train and will also include the status of lifts soon.

Since most of London’s tube stations offer free Wi-Fi, the app can be used during the trip without facing connections problems. TfL Go is an open data add providing free access to data for third-party app developers so that they can use the data to develop own products and services.

Vernon Everitt, managing director of customers, communication and technology at TfL, says: “This new app will make it easy to travel at the quieter times, change your plans on the move should that be necessary and access information on walking and cycling routes.”

Heidi Alexander, deputy mayor for transport, says: “We are helping passengers to travel safely around the capital by introducing a wide range of hygiene measures across the network, restoring public transport services to near-normal levels and creating more space for walking and cycling.” She recognises COVID-19 will continue to impact how people move in the city, stating “This means continuing to maintain social distancing, wearing a face-covering while using the network, avoiding travelling at peak times when you can, and walking and cycling where possible when arriving at mainline central London train stations.”

Photo Credit: © pixabay.com

Article published first at www.itsinternational.com on 25 August 2020