Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader today warned that no irregularity will be tolerated in distributing the stimulus packages, announced by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, for the COVID-19 pandemic-hit poor people.
“All should remain alert so that no nepotism takes place in distribution of the Prime Minister’s incentives and those reach the hands of the real beneficiaries. No irregularities will be tolerated to this end,” he told a regular press briefing on contemporary issues at his official residence here.
Quader, also the road transport and bridges minister, asked the authorities concerned to remain vigilant so that none can get involved in irregularities in distributing incentives among the poor people.
He said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has already announced incentive packages of Taka 3,200 crore in the assistance of helpless people hit hard by lockdowns, rural employment creation, tourism sector, transport workers and working people.
“It is necessary to pay maximum attention to preparing the lists of the people who are really affected by the pandemic,” he added.
About easing lockdown, Quader said the initiative package of the Sheikh Hasina government is an initiative to cut the sufferings of the people going home during Eid-ul-Azha, ensure financial security of the working people and keep the country’s economy smooth.
“We’ve to keep in mind that we should not take the opportunity of easing temporary restrictions…the festival journey should not turn into the last journey of life due to their indifference and ignorance,” he said.
The AL general secretary said although the premier gives a break in the lockdown ahead of Eid, coronavirus will not favour anyone while its deadly infection will spread. “So, there is no alternative to wearing mask.”
Mentioning that public transport will run on condition across the country from tomorrow as the restrictions have been relaxed, he said transports will operate with half seat capacity at 60 percent increase in fares.
The road transport minister said the transport owners and workers’ organisations must operate their vehicles following the health guidelines.
Legal action will be taken against those who would violate the government’s instructions and take extra fares from passengers, he warned.
