The week-long strict lockdown imposed countrywide by the government to stem the third wave of Covid-19 pandemic seems strict no more.
On the fourth day of the lockdown, on Sunday, movement of mass people and transports on the roads in capital Dhaka as well as across the country was seen increasing. Rickshaws were seen running freely while gatherings of people in the alleys also increased.
However, personnel from different law-enforcement agencies, Bangladesh Army, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and Ansar remained vigilant on the roads and highways even amid heavy rainfall.
During random visits to different areas in capital Dhaka, it was seen that people from various walks of life were seen roaming around, rickshaws, privet cars and various other vehicles were seen plying the roads. Many others were seen moving on foot. Various shops remained opened at different places.
Meanwhile, police men were seen busy with checking people and transports by setting up check posts on major roads since the morning. Police were seen stopping people and asking the destination and its reasons.
Members of other law enforcement agencies also remained on patrol.
On the other hand, at least 429 people were arrested from Dhaka streets till 3:00pm on Sunday, on the fourth day of the seven-day "strict lockdown", on charge of defying Covid-19 restrictions and health guidelines. Iftekhairul Islam, additional deputy commissioner (Media) of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), shared the information. With them, at least 1,920 Dhaka dwellers have been arrested so far.
Besides, traffic division of the DMP today fined 309 vehicles Tk 8,69,500 for violating Covid-19 restrictions.
The government imposed the week-long strict lockdown from July 1 to tackle the spread of Corona virus.
Apart from the patrolling and check posts, mobile courts are also being operated by different agencies.
According to the RAB headquarters, the elite force is in the field all over the country to enforce the ongoing restrictions and increase public awareness.
In case of emergency, one must wear a mask and maintain the social distancing while going outside.