Second wave deadlier, help stop it: PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday urged people to do their part in stopping the spread of coronavirus which had struck the country even stronger.

The leader of the House told parliament that inoculation against Covid-19 would continue, adding that the government was making efforts to purchase more shots.

"The second wave of coronavirus is becoming more deadly across the globe. Infection and fatality rates of the virus showed a sudden surge from March 29 to 31, and since then, it has been rising," Hasina said in her winding up speech in the 12th session of 11th parliament which was prorogued yesterday.

About the new restrictions, the PM said, "I know everyone will face difficulties. Despite this, I say people's lives should be given preference over everything."

The situation will be under control if people follow the rules and health guidelines.

The PM further said tourism and domestic flight operations will remain suspended for a week while shopping malls will be closed.

The PM advised everyone to inhale hot water vapor at home. "It is not clear how bad the virus is this time. The situation got worse all of a sudden."

She urged people to wear facemasks, maintain social distancing, and stop social gatherings including wedding ceremonies.

She asked the authorities to make sure people arriving from abroad are quarantined.

"Take special care of children and the youth as Covid-19 infection rate is much higher among them, although the elderly people were infected with the virus during the first wave."

Mentioning that several lawmakers died of coronavirus, she mourned the deaths of the people from Covid-19.

She said development projects would continue.

The government has been working to make Bangladesh self-reliant in every sector. She hailed the development of a new variety of onion.

Hasina urged people to farm on every inch of land to prevent food shortage due to the pandemic.