Lockdown day 12: Dhaka sees typical traffic jam
Dhaka Metropolitan Police sources said 604 persons were arrested on Monday
Dhaka streets again saw traffic jams on the 12th day of the strict lockdown as a large number of vehicles and commuters came out on Monday, just a day after the country registered a record 230 Covid-19 deaths.
Dhaka Metropolitan Police sources said 604 persons were arrested on Monday. Besides, 168 people and 727 vehicles were fined Tk263,900 and Tk16 lakh respectively for violating restrictions of lockdown.
Sandeep Sarker, an assistant commissioner of police, Khilgaon Zone, said there were a lot of private vehicles, rickshaws and motorcycles on the roads on Monday. Also, many people, mainly day labourers and low-income people have come out of home hoping to find a means to make a living.
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"We have filed seven cases so far [until noon]. As the traffic was heavy, we did not stop each vehicle today to avoid probable traffic congestion. We have stopped vehicles whose movement was suspicious and cases were filed against those who could not provide an appropriate reason for coming out of home," he added.
He further said many were fined in the past for not wearing a mask properly, but most of the people wore a mask on Monday.
Traffic Inspector Md Monir Hossen at the BG Press check-post also said that they have experienced massive traffic pressure, mostly motorbikes and cars.
Meanwhile, Khilgaon Police have arrested 34 people for wandering around in different kitchen markets in the area unnecessarily.
There was a large number of people wandering, sitting idly or chatting in the area. Two to three street food shops were open too.
Tea stall owner Amena Khatun opened her shop on Monday. She said there was no food in her house as she could not open the shop for the last 12 days.
"I am a single mother with three children. I have opened the stall because I have to feed my children," she said.
