Coronavirius measures lead to massive drop in ferry footfall
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PASSENGER numbers on CalMac's west coast ferries have dropped by 95 per cent.
But far from seeing the drop as a disaster, the operator has welcomed the figures as a sign the message about essential travel is getting through to the public.
CalMac introduced an essential lifeline timetable last week aimed at keeping essential goods, services and people going to and from the islands.
Since then the company has carried just 2593 passengers compared to 57,233 for the same period last year, a 95 per cent reduction.
Some services are running with just one or two passengers along with the essential goods and services.
"It is hugely encouraging that the public are paying attention to the Government advice of do not travel unless your journey is absolutely essential," CalMac’s managing director Robbie Drummond said.
"We are fully committed to keeping lifeline services running to the islands we support, bringing in food, fuel and medical supplies and taking off goods vital to keeping local economies running. The vast majority of people are getting that message loud and clear and we are only turning away a very small number at our ports.
"This has been an extremely challenging time for our staff and our communities, and I want to praise both for the way in which they have handed these unique circumstances.”
Throughout March commercial vehicles using CalMac's 33 vessel fleet are also down by 32 per cent over the same period last year.
CalMac is seeking evidence of Island residency or key worker status for all customers on all its 28 routes. Commercial customers have been made aware that they are expected to provide evidence to their drivers that they are carrying essential goods or providing essential services as defined by the Scottish Government.
The company has also closed all on board shops, bars and restaurants to help reduce the risk of Covid-19 infection.
