Buses in Kamloops will be free as BC Transit responds to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

To help prevent the spread of the virus, people are being asked to use the rear doors only to limit contact with the driver, as well as to practice social distancing. This move is similar to what other municipalities like Victoria and Nanaimo are enacting.

An exemption will be made for passengers with mobility issues, they will still be able to use the front doors to board the bus.

Full sized buses in Kamloops can hold 81 people, but while the province has banned gatherings larger that 50 people, transit buses are exempt. Buses in Kamloops are still running as normal, albeit with fewer riders.

“Around the 50-person limit, we have been notified that we are not included in that limit as we’re delivering an important service to transport people to work, including hospitals and other destinations including grocery shopping,” BC Transit spokesperson Jonathon Dyck told NL News on Wednesday.

People are urged to use the BC Transit website, the NextRide website, or reaching out to customer service at 250-382-6161 if they need more information.

PLEASE NOTE: Rear door boarding has been implemented to enhance social distancing for drivers and passengers. Accessible boarding is still available through the front door. Fares will not be collected at this time. pic.twitter.com/Qp8sQaXlIw

— City of Kamloops (@cityofkamloops) March 20, 2020