Covid-19: No health screening for passport holders at Hili checkpost

Despite the rise in new variants of Covid-19 in the neighbouring country India, passport holders were reportedly crossing the border through Hili land port without undergoing any form of medical screening.

Bangladesh's health authorities have issued alerts at all river, land and international airports, calling for strict screening and adherence to health safety protocols following the new variant of the coronavirus that continues to spread across various regions of India.

However, these directives appear to be largely ignored at the Hili immigration checkpost.

Mosammat Amina Khatun from Sirajganj said, "I'm heading to India for medical treatment. I heard here that Covid-19 is spreading again in India. I'm scared, but I have no choice."

Gokul Chandra, another Bangladeshi passenger, said, "I've been in India for a long time for medical reasons. There's growing fear due to the rising number of Covid-19 cases. I was worried I might catch the virus while seeking treatment. When I arrived at the Hili checkpost, I didn't see any medical team, nor did anyone ask me anything. Given the situation, health checks and safety measures are essential for those coming from India."

Bhagirath Sarkar, an Indian citizen, who was returning home through Hili, said, "I was visiting relatives in Biral of  Dinajpur district. Now I'm heading back. Nobody asked me anything about my health at the checkpost. A few days ago, my family called from home and told me Covid-19 was spreading again. So I'm rushing back."

Officer-in-Charge of Hili Immigration Checkpost Md Ariful Islam said, "On average, about 120 passport holders cross the border at Hili daily. Since August 5 last year, the Indian government has suspended tourist and other visa categories, except for limited medical, business and student visas. Those travelling now are likely from these categories."

 "We've heard through the media that the Omicron variant is spreading in India, but we haven't received any official directive on this matter. However, I've informed the Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer, he added.

Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer Dr Md Iltutmish Akand confirmed awareness of the directive.

"Screening operations will begin at the Hili checkpost by Tuesday, if not by Monday. A medical team will be deployed and passengers will be monitored to ensure adherence to health safety protocols following government instructions," he said.