The Pope is in town

This week has been World Youth Day .

There have been a lot of road closures in the city. Which roads where closed depended on the day and, sometimes, the time of day.

From a bus driver's point of view, it is no different to any other occasion when roads are closed, New Years Eve, APEC , parades, etc. On the day, we are given instructions and maps showing the alternate routes, lay up areas and bus stops to be used. We have no need to know this information in advance of the day we use it.

The 'pilgrims' (as the attendees are called) have a pass which gives them free public transport.

Extra bus services were put on, drivers were asked to volunteer to do 12 hour days. I didn't volunteer but got one anyway. Some months ago, we were told that no leave would be granted for this week (though, those who had already been given leave, kept it).

The pilgrims I had on my bus runs were cheerful, friendly and polite.