The government has advised foreign diplomats and those working for the United Nations and international organizations in Bangladesh to work from home during the week-long lockdown that begins from Wednesday.
However, emergency movements will be allowed during this period, according to an official communication sent to all diplomatic and consular missions, and representations of the United Nations and international organizations in Bangladesh by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday.
“Members of Diplomatic and Consular Missions, Representations of the United Nations and International Organizations in Bangladesh are advised to work from home during this period,” it says.
“Nonetheless, movements will be allowed using official vehicles holding diplomatic number plates for performing emergency official duties, purchasing medicine and essential food items, addressing emergency medical requirement as well as getting Covid-19 vaccination with a valid vaccination card,” it adds.
Given the deteriorating Covid-19 situation across the country, starting from 6am on Wednesday to 12 midnight on April 21, movements all over Bangladesh wilt be strictly restricted with exception to emergency services e.g. health services, police stations, fire service, electricity, water supply, gas/fuel supply, internet and telephone services.
During this period, all government, semi-government, autonomous bodies, private offices will remain closed and all modes of transportation, including international flights, will remain suspended.
Aligned with the above directives, officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will perform their duties from home during this period. All territorial directors general will be available on phone for regular activities.
The foreign secretary and the chief of protocol as the chief coordinator of Corona Cell will also remain available to address any emergency requirements of the missions.
All diplomatic and consular missions, representations of the United Nations and international organizations are advised to follow the government guidelines.
