Train services to remain suspended during lockdown, minister says

Passenger train services will remain suspended across the country during the countrywide lockdown, Railways Minister Nurul Islam Sujon has said.

However, the freight train services will continue as before, the Minister told UNB on Saturday.

Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader on Saturday said the government is set to announce a seven-day lockdown from Monday to stem the spread of coronavirus.

The health authorities recorded over 5000 Covid cases on March 29, 30 and 31 and April 3 while over 6000 cases on April 1 and 2.

Quader said the government has already taken necessary preparations to tackle the second wave of Covid-19. “But many people are showing reluctance to maintain health rules, which may worsen the Covid-19 situation,” he warned.

Meanwhile, State Minister for Public Administration Farhad Hossain said the decision for a countrywide lockdown for seven days would come within “two to three days”.

In a video message, he said the institutions providing emergency services would be open during the lockdown, reports UNB.

“Industries and factories will remain open too,” he said. “Workers will have to follow health guidelines and work in shifts (during that period).”