To transport those receiving COVID-19 vaccines to a mass vaccination site run by the Self-Defense Forces, the Tokyo metropolitan government started a free bus service between JR Tokyo Station and the vaccination venue, the Otemachi Godo Chosha Sangokan joint government building, on Monday.
A total of 1,500 people used the service on the first day of the SDF-run mass vaccination effort.
The metropolitan government commissioned major bus tour operator Hato Bus Co. to provide the transportation service, as the company already had a bus stop very close to Tokyo Station's Marunouchi South Exit, which could be used for the temporary bus service to the vaccination center.
Moreover, all bus tours operated by the company have been suspended due to the declaration of a state of emergency in the capital. That factor "allowed the company to muster many vehicles and personnel despite our sudden request," said a metropolitan government official.
Hato Bus employees are stationed at the bus stop to guide passengers.
"We'll ensure safe and secure operations," said a company official in charge.
The temporary bus service will be operated every five to six minutes from 7:45 a.m. to 7:55 p.m. daily until Aug. 23, when the mass vaccination effort is scheduled to be completed.
CAPTION
The Yomiuri Shimbun
People alight from a Hato Bus vehicle as they arrive at a mass vaccination site run by the Self-Defense Forces in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo, on Monday.
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