Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader has urged all to remain careful about the spread of coronavirus and not to make any mad rush at ferry ghats, bus-launch terminals and cattle markets irresponsibly.
“If everyone doesn’t stay careful and makes made rush at ferry ghats, bus and launch terminals and cattle markets, severe disaster may happen and the situation may go out of control,” he told a regular press conference at his official residence here.
Quader, also Awami League General Secretary, said if the people wear facemasks and maintain health guiltiness properly, there is no need for a lockdown.
On the other hand, if the people do not abide by health guidelines and show negligence and indifference, enforcing lockdown will be meaningless, he said.
The minister said the wearing of a facemask in the proper manner is the best shield to remain safe from being infected by the deadly virus.
He said now the coronavirus infection rate is higher in villages than in cities and towns. Once many used to think that the people in rural areas will not be infected with Covid-19 but the thinking was wrong as the virus has spread from villages to villages, he said.
Every day the infection rate is crossing its previous record, he said, adding that under the circumstances, everyone must maintain health guidelines and wear facemask properly.
Quader called upon all leaders and workers of the AL to continue extending cooperation to the distressed, working-class and poor people during the coronavirus crisis and Eid-ul-Azha.
Party’s affluent leaders and public representatives should stand by the distressed people and ailing party workers during the crisis period, he added.
Declaring postponement of political and organisational activities of the party under the present circumstances, the AL general secretary said: “Now our only programme is to stay beside the distressed people.”
He urged all political parties, social organisations and volunteers to conduct awareness-raising campaigns so none make gatherings at markets, haat, tea stalls and everyone must wear a facemask while going out of the home.