Road Transport and Bridges Minister and general secretary of ruling Bangladesh Awami League Obaidul Quader on Monday informed that a 500-member committee has been formed to tackle the coronavirus situation in the country.
The committee, comprising prominent doctors of Bangladesh Medical Association, was formed following a directive from the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and it would coordinate with the sub-committees of the Health Department, said Quader while briefing reporters on current affairs at the secretariat.
The government has taken several steps to face the situation, he said, adding, "Various important programmes of Mujib Year were rearranged and several were cancelled. All programmes of the Independence Day have been cancelled."
Quader urged grassroots public representatives to raise awareness among people about coronavirus.
Replying to a question, he said there was no food crisis in the country. "The government will take action if anyone stockpiles food," he said.
A list would be prepared on overseas returnees and that would be given to local administration and the health department, Quader added.
He also asked people to contact helpline numbers for any help or inquiry.
Quader also directed party leaders to remain alert against all fake news and rumours over coronavirus.
On Saturday, the government cancelled Independence Day ceremonies, a civic reception at Bangabhaban and the Swadhinata Padak distribution programme.