Transport operator Lothian has warned customers to expect widespread disruption to services over the festive period amid the spread of the omicron coronavirus outbreak.
Bosses at the firm said they had started to “feel the impact” of the unfolding pandemic in recent days, with drivers forced into isolation by the disease.
Passengers have been told the situation could cause “considerable pressure” on the network, adding it may only become worse as the current climate develops.
Lothian’s interim managing director, Nigel Serafini, has urged customers to be mindful of impacted services over the festive period, with express and high frequency routes likely to be among the most severely affected.
It comes after the First Minister announced a new raft of restrictions aimed at halting the escalating number of cases.
Indoor and outdoor events have had their attendance numbers slashed, while hospitality providers have been ordered to return to ‘table service’ inside premises.
In a statement, Mr Serafini said: “Across the last few days we have begun to feel the impact of the pandemic on our team resource which has placed considerable pressure on our ability to deliver our services to the levels our customers would expect.
“Sadly it’s likely that as the situation worsens it may well result in wider disruption across our network.
“To ensure we can continue to provide an efficient service for as many customers as possible, our teams are prioritising wider network connectivity to maintain vital links across Edinburgh and the Lothians.
“High frequency and express services may be impacted as a result and we would like to advise all of our customers to allow extra time for their journey.”
He added: “We would also like to take this opportunity to remind all of our customers to follow Scottish Government guidance when travelling on our services including the use of face coverings and keeping windows open.”
“We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and would like to thank all of our customers for their patience and understanding we endeavour to cope with circumstances outwith our control.
“A massive thank you goes to all of our colleagues for going above and beyond, and to their families for their continued support. We couldn’t do it without you.”
Festive timetables for all Lothian services are due to take effect from Christmas Eve until Wednesday, January 5.
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No specific temporary cuts to routes have been announced yet, but Lothian have urged customers to plan their journeys ahead of time if they are heading out and about during the Christmas and New Year period.
Mr Serafini continued: “We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and would like to thank all of our customers for their patience and understanding we endeavour to cope with circumstances outwith our control.
“A massive thank you goes to all of our colleagues for going above and beyond, and to their families for their continued support. We couldn’t do it without you.”
