RMG workers returning to Dhaka, triggering coronavirus risk

Ignoring nationwide ongoing shutdown enforced to prevent the transmission of coronavirus, thousands of people on Saturday were seen returning to Dhaka from different parts of the country.

Many of the RMG workers were seen traveling on crowded trucks and pick-up vans, while some opted to travel on foot, as the ongoing suspension of public transports was extended till April 11.

They were traveling in flocks, ignoring the guidelines of physical-distancing.

So, experts fear growing risk of coronavirus outbreak in the capital. They say it might occur drastic collapse in the capital.

Labour leaders also expressed their concern as workers are returning to Dhaka at this crisis moment.

Shafiq, a RMG worker who started for Gazipur from Dhaka on foot, said, “I heard that garment factories will open from tomorrow (Sunday). So, I went out from home to attend the job. I do not know how I reach Gazipur. But I have to reach.”

Rafiqul Islam was returning to Dhaka from Mymensingh. He said, “Factories will open from Sunday. I will lose my job if I cannot reach in time. So, I started walking for Dhaka.”

Rahim who was returning to Dhaka from Faridpur. She said that he fears much of losing job than coronavirus. So, she started for Gazipur by a rickshaw van.

RMG workers leader Moshrefa Mishu said that this is obviously inhuman activity to return workers to the capital for their jobs amid coronavirus outbreak.

“This will risk lives of city dwellers as well,” she added.

Preventive medicine expert Dr Lenin Chowdhury said workers are returning in flocks avoiding social distance. It is triggering risk of coronavirus pandemic.


Dhaka/Nur/AKA