Dhaka streets largely deserted on third day of lockdown

The streets of the capital were largely deserted on the third day of a nationwide 'strict' lockdown unlike the first two days.

Rickshaws, which were seen plying the city streets in the early days of the lockdown, were hardly seen on Friday.

Visiting Kakoli and Banani Chairman Bari on New Airport Road, Gulshan-1, Gulshan-2, Progoti Sarani, Merul Badda and Rampura areas, this correspondent saw vary few private cars and other private vehicles out on the streets.

Traffic Inspector Asaduzzaan of Mohakhali area said the number of private vehicles, as well as rickshaws, is very thin on the weekend.

All shops and business establishments on the main streets were seen closed on the day.

At the checkposts, the law enforcers did not stop people as often as they did on the first two days.

A large number of Muslim devotees were seen attending Jum'a prayers. Shops and shopping malls remained closed.

However, kitchen markets were open as usual but they were not operating in open spaces violating the government directives. Besides, many people were seen ignoring health guidelines.

A surge in coronavirus cases prompted the government to go for a strict lockdown to contain the virus' transmission. Bangladesh recorded over 7,000 daily cases before the number fell below 4,500.

On Friday, the country recorded 101 deaths - its highest single-day fatality - and 4,417 new cases.

Bangladesh reported its first coronavirus case on March 8, 2020, and the first death on March 18 the same year.

Amid the worsening Covid-19 situation, the government last week resorted to tough measures. The lockdown which began at 6am on April 14, will be in effect until April 21 midnight.