The National Technical Advisory Committee (NTAC) on Covid -19 has recommended a zone-wise total lockdown in border districts and the areas with higher infection rates.
Considering the growing infection rate, the border districts are now highly vulnerable to the Covid-19 crisis, it said.
Through a press release issued on Tuesday, based on the findings of its 36th and 37th virtual meetings held on Sunday and Monday, the anti-coronavirus panel urged all to stay at home unless necessary, and the authorities to tighten border patrolling to check trespassing.
NTAC Chairman Prof Mohammad Shahidullah presided over both the meetings.
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“The overall Covid-19 situation worsened in the country, especially in the border districts (Chapainawabganj, Natore, Rajshahi, Naogaon, Khulna, Satkhira, Jessore and Bagerhat). The higher infection rates are also seen in some other districts,” it mentioned.
Local administration, the committee recommended, can be empowered to take prompt measures to help contain the virus from transmitting.
Insisting on suspending inter-district bus services from the higher infection areas, the NTAC said public and police administrations must coordinate with the health authorities in tackling the crisis in districts.
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The administration must heighten the monitoring of health norms, for which the law can be amended. The restrictions will have to continue until the infection rate drops significantly, it added.
The committee also laid emphasis on ensuring health rules across the country. It sought a pause on eating inside restaurants - but the takeaway service can continue - and any kind of public gathering. It further suggested the closure of tourist spots and recreation centres.
Bangladesh has been under countrywide restrictions on public movement and gatherings since April 5, which has been extended in phases. The restrictions will continue till June 6.
