Empty capital roads in “strict lockdown”

A seven-day strict curfew has been imposed across the country from 6 am on Thursday to control coronavirus infection. The number of people and vehicles on the capital’s empty streets is very low compared to other days.

Rickshaws and private vehicles were seen plying on various roads including Farmgate, Bangla Motor, Moghbazar, Khilgaon, Mohammadpur, and Panthapath. Law enforcement was stationed on these roads. Police vehicles were also patrolled.

Police have stopped motorcycles and private cars at various check posts and are interrogating them. Many have come out in urgent need. Employees of various organizations including factories, banks, and media were also seen leaving the vehicles of the organization or with their identity cards.

Army patrols have been seen in the Rampura and Hatirjheel areas of the capital to assist the civilian administration. Pedestrians are being checked by setting up a mobile court of RAB at the Shahbagh intersection.

If they do not show sufficient reason, they are being fined. At the same time, law enforcers are distributing masks to unmasked rickshaw pullers or pedestrians.

According to the regulation, all government, semi-government, autonomous and private offices will remain closed during the strict lockdown. All types of mechanized vehicles including public transport by road, rail, and waterways will be closed. Domestic flights will be closed. However, international flights will continue and foreign passengers will be able to travel using the car by showing their international travel tickets.

Members of RAB, police, Army, and BGB are patrolling various streets of the capital to make the lockdown a success. To make the lockdown a success, law enforcement agencies are keeping a close watch on the entire country, including the capital Dhaka.

The lockdown, which began at 6 am on Thursday (July 1), will continue until July 7 to curb the rise in coronavirus infections.