Bangladesh
Daulatdia Daulatdia overcrowded as government makes lockdown announcement
Dhaka, April 12: The government has announced a nationwide crackdown for a week from April 14 to prevent corona infection. Thousands of people have started leaving Dhaka and returning home. As a result, the pressure of people is increasing at Daulatdia Ghat, the gateway to 21 districts in the south-west.
People started coming from the morning on Sunday (April 11) but the pressure on the wharf continued to increase in the afternoon.
Passengers come to Paturia Ghat with extra fare in small vehicles or various means as long-distance public transport is closed due to government restrictions for the first time to prevent corona transmission. He crossed the river in a crowded ferry and came to Daulatdia. Later, thousands of people from Daulatdia left for their respective destinations with extra fare.
Although most of the people in these places had masks on their faces, the social distance could not be noticed. As a result, the people concerned are worried about the risk of corona infection.
Returning from Dhaka, hotelier Abshar Uddin said, "Business is in a slump due to the current ban. It is impossible to run a business with thieves and police on it. Besides, there is a strict lockdown ahead and business must be stopped during Ramadan."
Another, Salam Mia, said: "The situation in the country is not good. But the government is not acknowledging it. If you want to implement lockdown, do it the right way. It is not right to risk everyone's life in this way. No one is following the guidelines."
Daulatdia Ghat Manager of Bangladesh Inland Water Transport (BIWTC) Firoz Sheikh said, "Passengers are coming to Daulatdia by crossing the river along with small and private vehicles. There are hundreds of freight trucks waiting at Daulatdia. Thousands of passengers are returning home with Daulatdia in the announcement. Passengers are not following the hygiene rules even after saying so."
