General Secretary of Bangladesh Awami League and Minister of Road Transport and Bridges Obaidul Quader has warned citizens that if they fail to follow health guidelines issued by the government resulting in a worsening of the situation surrounding coronavirus, the government will be forced to take harsher measures.
He made the remarks in a video message from his residence on Monday.
“Lockdowns have been eased in various parts of the world despite many infections and deaths. They have also been completely lifted at some places. Both our livelihoods and the economy will stagnate if we don’t return to our regular routines at least partially. In the current context, we must choose a balanced position to keep pace with the world,” he said.
Regarding the re-introduction of public transport and increase in fares, he said: "Public transports have resumed operation with half the seats vacant following the hygiene rules to prevent corona infection. The government has adjusted fares to meet the needs of reality, and public transport is running conditionally from today. I urge the owners to follow the hygiene rules and conditions. I also call on the law enforcement, vigilance team, mobile courts, and other terminal authorities to keep half the seats vacant and to monitor the increase in fares and compliance with hygiene rules.”
He urged passengers to maintain social distancing guidelines, and to avoid overcrowding in vehicles to minimize the spread of the virus.
Calling on the transport owners and workers, Obaidul Quader said: "I urge the transport owners and workers to set an example of humanity amidst the crisis. If the situation worsens due to our ignorance and disregard for hygiene, and if it goes against the public interest, then the government will be forced to take a tougher action again.”
Earlier, the government decided to resume public transport services in phases after evaluating the situation of the coronavirus outbreak in the country.
