The federal government outlines emergency scenarios: In the event of a serious power shortage, the post office may refuse to send letters

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Such a worst-case scenario is unlikely in the near future. Nevertheless, the Federal Council has laid the foundation for limiting basic postal and payment services in the event of a serious electricity shortage – in reserve, so to speak.

In concrete terms, he sent out two regulations for consultation on Friday that are intended to regulate, in the event of an emergency, how the postal service should behave in the event of a prolonged power shortage. In principle, it must “maintain its orders for basic postal and payment services wherever possible”.

However, if there are restrictions on basic services due to ordered electricity saving measures, the post office should not be sanctioned. However, the population should be informed in a timely manner about the reduced quality of services.

Even if operations could continue with an electricity quota, limitations in basic postal services would be expected, as the report states. Restrictions are also expected in the area of ​​payment transactions.

First, in the event of a severe electricity shortage, the Postal Service should prioritize basic services. It could prioritize shipments from business customers over those from private customers. Excluded from the prioritization would be vital shipments, such as deliveries to doctors’ practices and pharmacies.

According to the report, the postal service concludes that an emergency operation would be necessary, especially for letters, based on a 20 percent restriction. Services and products are then given priority. For example, parcels could receive preferential treatment over letters. During this phase, the acceptance of shipments from private individuals could also be refused.

Interested parties can respond to this in the context of the consultation until February 22, 2024.

(SDA)

Source:Blick