Chinese capital Beijing has seen a drop in the number of returning passenger trips after the Spring Festival holiday and amid the ongoing novel coronavirus epidemic. 

In Beijing South railway station, there have been only 40,000 passengers arriving each day, a decrease of about 70 percent compared to the same time last year. 

The extension of the Spring Festival holiday from January 31 to February 10 has also contributed to a fall in train trips. 

There are different reasons for those who have decided to returned to work.

"After I come back, I will spend seven days in isolation before going to the office," a passenger said. 

"I answered the call to return to my post and I will serve my country and start working tomorrow," a man said. 

All passengers are taking precautions. 

The railway system has taken tough measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. This is definitely a priority in the Beijing South railway station.

At the entrances, manual and auto body temperature checks are a must. Staffs can be seen disinfecting all areas of the train station regularly. 

An isolation area has also been prepared for any emergencies. 

"We disinfect our fare gates for every train. We give our workers masks, gloves, sanitizer, etc. and take their body temperature twice a day to protect their health," said Chen Huimin, director of passenger transport in the station.

All these measures are helping to better protect passengers. 

"On my way back, I saw security staff wearing protective clothing and glasses. This passes on a feeling that they pay close attention and we will follow them to take precautions. That's fine," a lady said. 

Passengers arriving in Beijing are required to each fill in a form with their contact information as precaution. This is to minimize the risks of the coronavirus spreading in the post-holiday travel rush not only in the Chinese capital but also in other places.