‘Still under control’
Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader yesterday said no situation has emerged till now to shut down educational institutions in the country due to the possible spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).
"There are lots of talks centring shutting down schools and colleges because of coronavirus. The authorities concerned are vigilant and they are monitoring the situation. The government will take all necessary steps, including shutting down the schools or colleges if any situation arises in this regard," he said.
Quader, also general secretary of Awami League, made the remarks during a press conference at AL central office on Bangabandhu Avenue before handing out leaflets on coronavirus on behalf of the party to create awareness among people.
He said the government is working relentlessly to combat the disease and has already taken all-out preparations in this regard and the situation is still under control, he added. Three Bangladeshi nationals, who got infected with coronavirus, are now doing well, he added.
"We are taking preparations for celebrating the Mujib Year along with checking coronavirus in the country as per the direction of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina," he added.
"Don't be panicked over the coronavirus issue, rather keep your trust on the government," Quader said.
He said the government is ready to accept the proposal [given by India] for combating COVID-19 along with the Saarc countries.
Turning his attention to BNP, he said a "political virus" like corona has entered the party. "They [BNP leaders] should remove that coronavirus from their home first by avoiding politics of blaming the government."
AL presidium member Matia Chowdhury, its joint general secretary and Education Minister Dr Dipu Moni; party's organising secretaries Ahmed Hossain, Mirza Azam and SM Kamal Hossain; publicity and publication affairs secretary Abdus Sobhan Golap; relief and social welfare secretary Sujit Roy Nandi; office secretary Biplob Barua and AL south city unit president Abu Ahmed Mannafi were present on the occasion, among others.
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