Public transport services resumed in cities across the country on Thursday, after remaining suspended for 22 days. However, inter-district bus services will remain suspended during the lockdown until May 16 in an attempt to control the spread of coronavirus.
Buses were seen carrying passengers beyond their seating capacity and no seats were kept vacant. Passengers were seen elbowing each other to get into buses. Many were seen without masks. These scenarios could be noticed after visiting many areas of the capital including Mirpur, Gabtoli, Asadgate, Shyamoli and Jatrabari on Thursday.
Although the buses were mostly empty in the morning, the pressure of passengers mounted as the day was progressing.
In some buses, passengers were seen going to their destinations maintaining hygiene rules, but in most cases, violation of the government directives were observed.
Only a few buses could be noticed using disinfectant spray while picking up passengers.
The passengers said that although the bus service has been beneficial, they had to wait for a long time to get into the bus. As it was the first day of the resumption of public transport, there were less transportation available on the road.
“After getting on the bus, I could not find two adjacent seats vacant. Being compelled, I had to sit beside another passenger” said a passenger.
Many passengers also complained that the helpers were taking advantage of this situation.
They said, “We will only get the benefit if the authorities concerned monitor this issue. Otherwise, the drivers and helpers will keep carrying passengers according to their wish.”
Meanwhile, law enforcement personnel are monitoring the public transports to prevent inter-district buses from entering the capital.
Public transport services were suspended from April 5, as the government announced a nationwide lockdown to contain the transmission of coronavirus.