Dhaka: Bangladesh has extended restrictions imposed on public activities and movement across the country until August 3 to contain the spread of the coronavirus as the number of positive cases increased to 1.45,483 and the number of deaths reached 1,847.
The government announced the decision as existing restriction measures across the country expired Tuesday night, the Daily Star reported.
The Cabinet Division issued a notice, mentioning that “the restriction will continue from July 1 to August 3. Weekly vacations will also be under the scope of the restrictions.”
Without urgent need, the necessary purchase or sale of items including medications, medical services, and movement to workplaces, no one will be allowed to leave their home from 10:00 p.m. at 5:00 a.m. During that period, the notice says it contains an 11-point directive.
Everyone should wear face masks, maintain social distancing and health guidelines outside the home, according to the notification, adding that violators will face legal action.
Markets, stores, and shopping malls must close within 7:00 pm, while handwashing facilities, disinfectants, and vehicle disinfection services must be secured at the entrances of shopping malls.
The movement of vehicles (trucks, lorries, and cargo ships) dedicated to the transportation of products across highways and river routes will continue to follow the health guidelines issued by the Division of Health Services.
Before Eid-ul-Azha, the disposal of livestock markets will be allowed, but government-issued health guidelines must be strictly followed.
Public transportation, passenger vessels, trains, and planes could operate their services on a limited scale with a limited number of passengers in approved regions.
However, the maintenance of health guidelines, including the use of protective masks, as announced by the Division of Health Services, must be guaranteed at all times.
No educational institution may remain open during the restriction. However, online courses or distance education courses will continue and institutes may carry out administrative activities.
Meetings, gatherings, mass gatherings, and any functions will remain suspended during the restriction, while people may offer their prayers in mosques and other places of worship while maintaining the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and the Health Guidelines.
To contain the spread of the deadly virus, a zoning system such as red, yellow, and green zones will be implemented, while city corporations will be responsible for the overall implementation of region-based restriction activities in their respective areas of jurisdiction.
Health authorities on Tuesday reported 64 more deaths from COVID-19, the highest in a single day, and 3,682 new cases of infection. The death toll has now reached 1,847 and the total number of cases increased to 145,483.
The highest single-day death toll of 53 was reported on June 16, while on Monday there were 4,014 record infections.
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