From fashion to queueing, covid-19 is changing the way we live. As we gradually head back to work, how will commuting change for the post-pandemic workforce?
The latest announcement by Boris Johnson unfolded the government’s plan to get the economy back up and running with offices, schools, shops and restaurants reopening in different phases.
Announcing five new task forces, the government has already allowed businesses that cannot operate with a work-from-home model to return to their offices while maintaining social distancing.
If you are part of the returning workforce in the UK, chances are you are already planning your journey back to work via London’s underground.
London’s growing workforce is heavily reliant on the tube, with over 2 million people using the service daily.
After lock-down measures across London quickly emptied the tube, it’s expected that services will resume to some degree of normality with the gradual easing of lock-down.
According to The Evening Standard, tube journeys across London are rising, with a 25 percent increase during the week of 22 May compared to the previous week. That takes the average number of passengers to 291,000.
Will social distanced commuting be possible in London?
The high infection rates we saw at the peak of the pandemic has left many Londoners fearful about returning to work.
Commuting in London is impossible without coming into close contact with others, and many are wondering whether face masks will work well enough to keep them safe.
The Department of Health has been issuing guidelines on their Twitter account to help Brits plan their routes safely. While the primary advice is to avoid using public transport, it suggests that using a face mask and regular hand wash can help keep commuters safe.
While we have seen an explosion in the production of hand sanitisers and face masks, many businesses are coming up with their own innovative products to help keep people safe.
eBikes – the future of post-covid commuting?
One product aiming to make commuting safe is the electric bike. E-Bikes are a sustainable and convenient mode of travel that can be easily used as an alternative to public transportation.
Unlike traditional bicycles, electric bikes require much less effort from riders, helping to prevent them turning up to work as a heaping ball of sweat.
Additionally, cycling has long-term benefits such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle that is easy to adapt by all age groups.
Exercise and reduced contact with fellow commuters could be two benefits that make electric bikes the choice of transport after lock-down.
And with more businesses looking to benefit from the UK’s lucrative cycle to work scheme, it seems like a win-win for everyone.
Where can I buy an eBike?
With the general surge in cycling coming at a time when public transport seems an unattractive option for commuters, finding an eBike is easier than you think.
You can purchase eBikes from several companies, including Pedego, DASH, Geero and Easy rides.
Companies such as DASH are going a step further by offering foldable eBikes which can be stored under workstations.
What we really need in these times of high uncertainty is different business models that can help solve common problems at each phase of lock-down.
Products that help alleviate public risks while improving our health will go a long way in helping us get back to normal.
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