State Minister: Lockdown again if Covid infections rise

Restrictions and lockdowns will be imposed again if the Covid-19 infections rise in the country, says State Minister for Public Administration Farhad Hossain.

Speaking to the media in Dhaka on Thursday, he said they were considering two strategies reimposing shutdown or opening everything while making sure everyone wears a mask.

“Countries around the world, which are seeing jump in coronavirus cases, have imposed a lockdown. 

“Australia has deployed troops and even imposed a curfew. The US did the same. Because there’s no alternative to it,” he said.

Also Read - Tourist sites, resorts, recreation centres to reopen from August 19

The state minister said that the Covid-19 curbs are being lifted in phases.

Tourist spots, resorts as well as recreation centres have been allowed to reopen with 50% capacity from August 19 as a continuation of easing the pandemic curbs, Farhad said adding that all public transport by road, rail, and rivers will also resume operation, at full capacity, from the same day following health safety rules.

He urged everyone to perform their duties with caution and wear masks.

The state minister said people must remember that failing to follow the health safety rules will only make the situation worse, especially for those who have comorbidities.

Mentioning that the Covid-19 restrictions were in place for quite some time the state minister said: “We had to reopen the economy due to the needs and livelihoods of the people. Although the current pandemic situation is not satisfactory.”

Also Read - ED: Lockdown has been lifted, but let’s remember that Covid is not gone

Amid the countrywide massive inoculation campaign, Bangladesh lifted most lockdown restrictions on Wednesday, allowing public transport, offices, and malls to reopen.

Shopping malls, markets, and shops are now open from 10am to 8pm while eateries are open from 8am to 10pm, but are only allowed to take half their capacity of dine-in customers.

All government and private offices, and factories have been operating as before from Wednesday.