‘Lockdown’: Dhaka witnesses significant rise in public, vehicular movement

Staff Correspondent:  Despite “strict lockdown” imposed by the government, Dhaka  yesterday witnessed a significant rise in public and vehicular movement due to lax monitoring by the law enforcers.  Visiting main thoroughfares in Shyamoli, Asad Gate, Mohammadpur, Mirpur, Dhanmondi and Farmgate, our correspondent found all mode of transport, except buses, plying the roads.  At some check-posts, police were seen sitting idly and rarely stopping people for checking “movement pass”.

Pressure of private vehicles and transports arranged by workplaces was higher on the streets because of office timing.  In Shyamoli, many were seen coming for Covid-19 tests or to get vaccinated as there are several hospitals in the area.   Like other days, rickshaws are dominating the streets.

The scenes at kitchen markets were as usual — teeming with people in the morning.   Meanwhile, the alleys remained as crowded as ever since many shops besides groceries and pharmacies are operating their businesses. Many had their shutters half-closed.   With coronavirus cases continuing to rise alarmingly from mid-March, the government imposed a nationwide “lockdown” for one week from April 5 as part of its move to contain the virus’ spread.  Later, a week-long “stricter lockdown” was declared from April 14, which has been extended till April 28.