Thousands of people trying to leave Dhaka as Bangladesh's capital is set to enter a total lockdown on Monday (June 28). Watch this report to know more.

Coronavirus Update: Dhaka to enter week-long complete lockdown on June 28

In 2002, Bangladesh has became the first country in the world to ban polythene. However, the government has not being able to create a alternate to polythene in the last two decades. According to a recent study, the plastic waste in Dhaka has tripled in the last two decades. Watch this report to know more.

Study: Plastic waste in Dhaka tripled in last 2 decades

The Bangladesh government has extended the closure of all schools and colleges till June 30, in view of a surge in coronavirus cases, according to a media report.

On March 17 last year, Bangladesh had closed all schools to contain the spread of coronavirus. All examinations were cancelled.

In a notification on Saturday, the Ministry of Education said all primary, secondary, higher secondary and college-level institutions, including Ebtedayee and Qawmi madrasas, would remain closed till June 30, The Dhaka Tribune newspaper reported.

Last month, Education Minister Dipu Moni said in-class teaching could be reopened on June 13, based on a review of the virus outbreak.

"The COVID-19 situation worsened in some districts and many areas have been locked down. Considering the safety of students, teachers, staff and guardians, and upon the advice of COVID-19 technical committee, the shutdown has been extended," the newspaper quoted the notification.

Health experts said Bangladesh would experience a fresh wave of COVID-19 later in the month, fuelled by the virus variant B1.617.2, which was first identified in India.

So far, COVID-19 has claimed 13,032 lives along with 822,849 confirmed infections in Bangladesh.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Bangladesh government has extended the closure of all schools and colleges till June 30, in view of a surge in coronavirus cases, according to a media report.

The Bangladesh government has extended the closure of all schools and colleges till June 30, in view of a surge in coronavirus cases, according to a media report. On March 17 last year, Bangladesh had closed all schools to contain the spread of coronavirus. All examinations were cancelled. In a notification on Saturday, the Ministry of Education said all primary, secondary, higher secondary and college-level institutions, including Ebtedayee and Qawmi madrasas, would remain closed till June 30, The Dhaka Tribune newspaper reported. Last month, Education Minister Dipu Moni said in-class teaching could be reopened on June 13, based on a review of the virus outbreak. "The COVID-19 situation worsened in some districts and many areas have been locked down. Considering the safety of students, teachers, staff and guardians, and upon the advice of COVID-19 technical committee, the shutdown has been extended," the newspaper quoted the notification. Health experts said Bangladesh would experience a fresh wave of COVID-19 later in the month, fuelled by the virus variant B1.617.2, which was first identified in India. So far, COVID-19 has claimed 13,032 lives along with 822,849 confirmed infections in Bangladesh. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Schools, colleges to remain closed till June 30 in Bangladesh

Shakib Al Hasan lost his cool while appealing for lbw against Mushfiqur Rahim in the Dhaka Premier Division Premier League clash and kicked the stumps. His anger did not end there, the all-rounder uprooted them and threw it away before rain stopped the play.&nbsp;

The incident took place during a Dhaka Premier Division Premier League clash between Mohamedan Sporting Club and Abahani Limited at Sher-E-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Friday.&nbsp;

WATCH:&nbsp;

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For someone who’s one of the best players from his country this reaction from Shakib Al Hasan is shocking. Shakib is a role model for many <a href="https://t.co/cNxjfU5sd3">pic.twitter.com/cNxjfU5sd3</a>
— Sarang Bhalerao (@bhaleraosarang) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhaleraosarang/status/1403316853938671621?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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How long a ban should Shakib Al Hasan get for this incident? <a href="https://t.co/Sx9H2UjXTn">pic.twitter.com/Sx9H2UjXTn</a>
— 🏏FlashScore Cricket Commentators (@FlashCric) <a href="https://twitter.com/FlashCric/status/1403312408295133184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Mohamedan's skipper was seen aggressively arguing with the umpire as the players were leaving the ground. Even while batting, Shakib seemed upset with Arafat Sunny's bowling action as he felt the spinner was chucking the ball.&nbsp;

Shakib Al Hasan's behaviour during the match attracted a lot of criticism on social media. The cricketer later took to Facebook and apologised for his actions and said: "Dear fans and followers, I am extremely sorry for losing my temper and ruining the match for everyone and especially those who are watching from home. An experienced player like me should not have reacted that way but sometimes against all odds it happens unfortunately. I apologise to the teams, management, tournament officials and organizing committee for this human error. Hopefully, I won't be repeating this again in the future. Thanks and love you all."

However, here are some reactions on Twitter after the incident.&nbsp;

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Shakib Al Hasan lashes out at stumps in anger, twice in one DPL game <a href="https://t.co/HuboMx47Ff">pic.twitter.com/HuboMx47Ff</a>
— Adarsh O'Conner (@AdharshPW) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdharshPW/status/1403321415441424384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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This is plain and simple disgrace!! Shaikb what did you just do here.. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ShakibAlHasan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ShakibAlHasan</a> <a href="https://t.co/VadRo1PkNR">pic.twitter.com/VadRo1PkNR</a>
— Sawera Pasha (@sawerapasha) <a href="https://twitter.com/sawerapasha/status/1403321108250566657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Shakib Al Hasan you cannot do that <a href="https://t.co/wUksBO4Sab">https://t.co/wUksBO4Sab</a>
— Rick Eyre on cricket (@rickeyrecricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/rickeyrecricket/status/1403301278533308418?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Shakib Al Hasan lost his cool while appealing for lbw against Mushfiqur Rahim in the Dhaka Premier Division Premier League clash and kicked the stumps. His anger did not end there, the all-rounder uprooted them and threw it away before rain stopped the play.

Shakib Al Hasan lost his cool while appealing for lbw against Mushfiqur Rahim in the Dhaka Premier Division Premier League clash and kicked the stumps. His anger did not end there, the all-rounder uprooted them and threw it away before rain stopped the play. The incident took place during a Dhaka Premier Division Premier League clash between Mohamedan Sporting Club and Abahani Limited at Sher-E-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Friday. WATCH: For someone who’s one of the best players from his country this reaction from Shakib Al Hasan is shocking. Shakib is a role model for many pic.twitter.com/cNxjfU5sd3 — Sarang Bhalerao (@bhaleraosarang) June 11, 2021 × How long a ban should Shakib Al Hasan get for this incident? pic.twitter.com/Sx9H2UjXTn — 🏏FlashScore Cricket Commentators (@FlashCric) June 11, 2021 × Mohamedan's skipper was seen aggressively arguing with the umpire as the players were leaving the ground. Even while batting, Shakib seemed upset with Arafat Sunny's bowling action as he felt the spinner was chucking the ball. Shakib Al Hasan's behaviour during the match attracted a lot of criticism on social media. The cricketer later took to Facebook and apologised for his actions and said: "Dear fans and followers, I am extremely sorry for losing my temper and ruining the match for everyone and especially those who are watching from home. An experienced player like me should not have reacted that way but sometimes against all odds it happens unfortunately. I apologise to the teams, management, tournament officials and organizing committee for this human error. Hopefully, I won't be repeating this again in the future. Thanks and love you all." However, here are some reactions on Twitter after the incident. Shakib Al Hasan lashes out at stumps in anger, twice in one DPL game pic.twitter.com/HuboMx47Ff — Adarsh O'Conner (@AdharshPW) June 11, 2021 × This is plain and simple disgrace!! Shaikb what did you just do here.. #ShakibAlHasan pic.twitter.com/VadRo1PkNR — Sawera Pasha (@sawerapasha) June 11, 2021 × Shakib Al Hasan you cannot do that https://t.co/wUksBO4Sab — Rick Eyre on cricket (@rickeyrecricket) June 11, 2021 ×

From kicking stumps to uprooting them! Shakib Al Hasan loses his cool during match- WATCH

At least 11 people have been arrested for being suspected members of a Bangladesh trafficking gang that lured girls and women into India's sex trade using the social media platform TikTok, Dhaka police said Tuesday.

The gang's alleged ringleader Rafizul Islam Ridoy -- nicknamed "TikTok Ridoy" -- would "lure young girls from TikTok and other social media groups, promising to make them TikTok models", Bangladesh's Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) paramilitary unit said.

But the victims were instead smuggled into southern India and forced into sex work, according to a RAB statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-a-malaysian-teenagers-fight-against-rape-culture-in-schools-caused-national-backlash-385638">How a Malaysian teenager's fight against rape culture in schools caused national backlash</a>

The arrests came after video footage of an alleged sexual assault of a Bangladeshi woman went viral on social media in late May, prompting an investigation into the gang, the RAB said.

The suspects were all detained over the last week.

The latest arrests came on Monday when two men were held in a southwestern border district in Bangladesh for allegedly trafficking girls and women aged between 17 to 22, Dhaka police's deputy commissioner Mohammad Shahidullah said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/uk-woman-accuses-spy-of-rape-by-tricking-her-into-relationship-384233" hreflang="en">UK: Woman accuses spy of rape by tricking her into relationship</a>

"One of them has told us that he has sent 1,000 people to India," Shahidullah told AFP.

A total of nine people were arrested in Bangladesh and two others in India's tech hub Bangalore for allegedly being part of the trafficking gang, police added.

Bangalore city police commissioner Kamal Pant told AFP Tuesday that four other people were also arrested and accused of rape or abetting the alleged sexual assault shown in the video.

An additional person arrested late Tuesday had yet to be questioned, he added.

All were Bangladesh nationals, police in both countries said.

Ridoy was one of those in the custody of Bangalore authorities, Dhaka police added.

Shahidullah said that since 2019 when TikTok became popular in Bangladesh, such gangs had sprung up to draw in teenagers from low-income families.

They would be invited to pool parties, star in TikTok videos and "sold dreams of well-paid salaries in call centres, sales and service centres", he added.

At least 11 people have been arrested for being suspected members of a Bangladesh trafficking gang that lured girls and women into India's sex trade using the social media platform TikTok, Dhaka police said Tuesday.

At least 11 people have been arrested for being suspected members of a Bangladesh trafficking gang that lured girls and women into India's sex trade using the social media platform TikTok, Dhaka police said Tuesday. The gang's alleged ringleader Rafizul Islam Ridoy -- nicknamed "TikTok Ridoy" -- would "lure young girls from TikTok and other social media groups, promising to make them TikTok models", Bangladesh's Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) paramilitary unit said. But the victims were instead smuggled into southern India and forced into sex work, according to a RAB statement. Also read | How a Malaysian teenager's fight against rape culture in schools caused national backlash The arrests came after video footage of an alleged sexual assault of a Bangladeshi woman went viral on social media in late May, prompting an investigation into the gang, the RAB said. The suspects were all detained over the last week. The latest arrests came on Monday when two men were held in a southwestern border district in Bangladesh for allegedly trafficking girls and women aged between 17 to 22, Dhaka police's deputy commissioner Mohammad Shahidullah said. Also read | UK: Woman accuses spy of rape by tricking her into relationship "One of them has told us that he has sent 1,000 people to India," Shahidullah told AFP. A total of nine people were arrested in Bangladesh and two others in India's tech hub Bangalore for allegedly being part of the trafficking gang, police added. Bangalore city police commissioner Kamal Pant told AFP Tuesday that four other people were also arrested and accused of rape or abetting the alleged sexual assault shown in the video. An additional person arrested late Tuesday had yet to be questioned, he added. All were Bangladesh nationals, police in both countries said. Ridoy was one of those in the custody of Bangalore authorities, Dhaka police added. Shahidullah said that since 2019 when TikTok became popular in Bangladesh, such gangs had sprung up to draw in teenagers from low-income families. They would be invited to pool parties, star in TikTok videos and "sold dreams of well-paid salaries in call centres, sales and service centres", he added.

Bangladesh trafficking gang lured girls using TikTok: Police

Bangladesh has declared a tax rebate for companies hiring transgenders in a series of measures to boost support for the minority group in the conservative Muslim-majority nation.

Bangladesh: Firms with 100 transgender workers to get tax rebate

Italy extended Sunday an entry ban for people coming from India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, as a continued precaution against the more transmissible <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> variant first detected in India.

The ban, which does not apply to Italian citizens, was introduced in late April and was due to expire on Sunday. It was prolonged until June 21, a spokesman for Italian Health Minister Roberto Speranza said in a statement.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/italy-imposes-travel-ban-from-india-over-covid-19-variant-380106">Italy imposes travel ban from India over COVID-19 variant</a>

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-technology/uk-variant-first-images-of-b117-coronavirus-mutation-382771">B.1.617</a> variant of the coronavirus was first detected in India last year and has been blamed for much of a devastating <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> wave that has battered South Asian nations in recent weeks.

This week, the World Health Organization (WHO) said the variant has officially spread to 53 territories, and has been linked to seven other territories by unofficial sources, taking the total to 60.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-italy-reports-new-deaths-european-commission-urges-member-states-to-extend-temporary-non-essential-travel-ban-297530">As Italy reports new deaths, European Commission urges member states to extend temporary non-essential travel ban</a>

In an interview with AFP, WHO regional director for Europe Hans Kluge said the increased contagiousness of the new variants of the coronavirus, including the Indian one, was one of his main worries.

"We know for example that the B.1617 is more transmissible than the B.117, which already was more transmissible than the previous strain," the Belgian doctor said.

Italy extended Sunday an entry ban for people coming from India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, as a continued precaution against the more transmissible coronavirus variant first detected in India.

Italy extended Sunday an entry ban for people coming from India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, as a continued precaution against the more transmissible coronavirus variant first detected in India. The ban, which does not apply to Italian citizens, was introduced in late April and was due to expire on Sunday. It was prolonged until June 21, a spokesman for Italian Health Minister Roberto Speranza said in a statement. Also Read | Italy imposes travel ban from India over COVID-19 variant The B.1.617 variant of the coronavirus was first detected in India last year and has been blamed for much of a devastating COVID-19 wave that has battered South Asian nations in recent weeks. This week, the World Health Organization (WHO) said the variant has officially spread to 53 territories, and has been linked to seven other territories by unofficial sources, taking the total to 60. Also Read | As Italy reports new deaths, European Commission urges member states to extend temporary non-essential travel ban In an interview with AFP, WHO regional director for Europe Hans Kluge said the increased contagiousness of the new variants of the coronavirus, including the Indian one, was one of his main worries. "We know for example that the B.1617 is more transmissible than the B.117, which already was more transmissible than the previous strain," the Belgian doctor said.

Italy extends entry ban for India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka

As Bangladesh reported 1,710 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, the country`s cumulative count of infections has surpassed 800,000 mark on Monday.As many as 36 more people died in the last 24 hours, taking the number of total deaths to 12,619, according to the country`s Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the number of all coronavirus cases jumped to 800,540.Dhaka Tribune reported that it took 47 days for Bangladesh to cross the latest mark from 700,000 cases registered on April 14.Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has expressed concerns over the surge in infections during a cabinet meeting on Monday.

"Coronavirus transmission has intensified in the border districts which is a matter of concern for us. The prime minister has instructed the (authorities concerned) to put the districts under tougher lockdown at the earliest," Health Minister Zahid Maleque said on Monday, Bangla Tribune reported.On Sunday, Bangladesh had announced an extension of the ongoing lockdown until June 6 in order to control the spread of COVID-19.

A Cabinet Division official said that the restrictions have been extended till June 6 midnight. State Minister for Public Administration Farhad Hossain said that the restriction will continue until the daily infection rate drops to 5 per cent.&nbsp;

He further stated that the move came on the advice of the National Technical Advisory Committee on COVID-19.

"It will continue until the daily infection rate drops to 5 per cent. But that too will depend on observations," Dhaka Tribune quoted Hossain as saying.The Bangladesh government has decided to extend the ongoing ban on public travel through land ports to India till June 14 in view of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Amid the rise in COVID-19 cases in the neighbourhood, Bangladesh`s land border has been closed with India since April 26. May 31 was supposed to be the last day of the ban, however, the ban was extended yet again, Dhaka Tribune reported.

As Bangladesh reported 1,710 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, the country`s cumulative count of infections has surpassed 800,000 mark on Monday.As many as 36 more people died in the last 24 hours, taking the number of total deaths to 12,619, according to the country`s Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).

As Bangladesh reported 1,710 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, the country`s cumulative count of infections has surpassed 800,000 mark on Monday.As many as 36 more people died in the last 24 hours, taking the number of total deaths to 12,619, according to the country`s Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). Meanwhile, the number of all coronavirus cases jumped to 800,540.Dhaka Tribune reported that it took 47 days for Bangladesh to cross the latest mark from 700,000 cases registered on April 14.Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has expressed concerns over the surge in infections during a cabinet meeting on Monday. "Coronavirus transmission has intensified in the border districts which is a matter of concern for us. The prime minister has instructed the (authorities concerned) to put the districts under tougher lockdown at the earliest," Health Minister Zahid Maleque said on Monday, Bangla Tribune reported.On Sunday, Bangladesh had announced an extension of the ongoing lockdown until June 6 in order to control the spread of COVID-19. A Cabinet Division official said that the restrictions have been extended till June 6 midnight. State Minister for Public Administration Farhad Hossain said that the restriction will continue until the daily infection rate drops to 5 per cent. He further stated that the move came on the advice of the National Technical Advisory Committee on COVID-19. "It will continue until the daily infection rate drops to 5 per cent. But that too will depend on observations," Dhaka Tribune quoted Hossain as saying.The Bangladesh government has decided to extend the ongoing ban on public travel through land ports to India till June 14 in view of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Amid the rise in COVID-19 cases in the neighbourhood, Bangladesh`s land border has been closed with India since April 26. May 31 was supposed to be the last day of the ban, however, the ban was extended yet again, Dhaka Tribune reported.

Bangladesh's COVID-19 caseload tops 800,000

Several thousand Rohingya staged "unruly" protests Monday against living conditions on a cyclone-prone island off Bangladesh where they were moved from vast camps on the mainland, police said. 
 
Since December, Bangladesh has shifted 18,000 out of a planned 100,000 refugees to the low-lying silt island of Bhashan Char from the Cox's Bazar region, where around 850,000 people live in squalid and cramped conditions. 
 
Most of them had fled a brutal military offensive in neighbouring Myanmar in 2017 that UN investigators concluded was executed with "genocidal intent". 
 
Monday's protest involved up to 4,000 people, police said, and coincided with an inspection visit by officials from the United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR). 
 
"The Rohingya who are there became unruly the moment the UNHCR representatives landed (on the island) by helicopter today," local police chief Alamgir Hossain told AFP. 
 
"They broke the glass on warehouses by throwing rocks. They came at the police... Their demand is they don't want to live here." 
 
One Rohingya man confirmed to AFP that bricks were thrown and that police prevented them from entering a building where the UNHCR officials were present. 
 
An international rights activist said police used batons to disperse the protesters. Quoting Rohingya sources, he said several protesters were injured. Police rejected the claim.

A police spokesman said Rohingya protesters attacked officers, injuring several of them. They also damaged cars on the island, he said.

A UNHCR spokesperson confirmed that a delegation from the refugee agency, including the UNHCR Assistant High Commissioner for Operations and the Assistant High Commissioner for Protection, visited Bhasan Char island, facilitated by the Government of Bangladesh.

"The UNHCR delegation was able to meet with a large group of refugees and to listen to the various issues that they raised, which the delegation will further discuss with the Bangladesh authorities," she said.

She said the delegation has now arrived in Cox's Bazar and would visit the Rohingya refugee camps Tuesday, before returning to Dhaka to meet with senior government officials. 
 
'Dire straits' 
After the first transfer on December 4 to the island in the Bay of Bengal, several Rohingya told AFP they were beaten and intimidated into agreeing to be relocated.

Their claims have been echoed by rights groups.

The Bangladesh government insists relocation is voluntary, that the island is safe and that its facilities are far better than those in the camps. Police told AFP at least 49 Rohingya, including women and children, have been arrested in recent weeks after fleeing the island and trying to return to Cox's Bazar.

But Rohingya leaders say that scores, if not hundreds, of people from their community have escaped and have since returned to Cox's Bazar.

One man told AFP on condition of anonymity that he left the island by swimming and then boarding a Bangladeshi fishing boat waiting for him, paying the owner $300.

He said that before agreeing to move to the island, he had been assured that he would be able to return to his family in Cox's Bazar after two weeks.

"The Rohingyas in&nbsp;Bhashan Char are&nbsp;given&nbsp;only&nbsp;food and&nbsp;no other&nbsp;facilities," he said.

He said promises that they would be able to work on the island, farm and fish were not fulfilled.

"The Rohingyas are in dire straits there.&nbsp;The Cox's&nbsp;Bazar (camps)&nbsp;are a thousand times better than&nbsp;Bhashan Char," he said.

The UN said it has not been involved in the relocation process. There was no immediate comment from the UNHCR on Monday's demonstrations.

Several thousand Rohingya staged "unruly" protests Monday against living conditions on a cyclone-prone island off Bangladesh where they were moved from vast camps on the mainland, police said.

Several thousand Rohingya staged "unruly" protests Monday against living conditions on a cyclone-prone island off Bangladesh where they were moved from vast camps on the mainland, police said. Since December, Bangladesh has shifted 18,000 out of a planned 100,000 refugees to the low-lying silt island of Bhashan Char from the Cox's Bazar region, where around 850,000 people live in squalid and cramped conditions. Most of them had fled a brutal military offensive in neighbouring Myanmar in 2017 that UN investigators concluded was executed with "genocidal intent". Monday's protest involved up to 4,000 people, police said, and coincided with an inspection visit by officials from the United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR). "The Rohingya who are there became unruly the moment the UNHCR representatives landed (on the island) by helicopter today," local police chief Alamgir Hossain told AFP. "They broke the glass on warehouses by throwing rocks. They came at the police... Their demand is they don't want to live here." One Rohingya man confirmed to AFP that bricks were thrown and that police prevented them from entering a building where the UNHCR officials were present. An international rights activist said police used batons to disperse the protesters. Quoting Rohingya sources, he said several protesters were injured. Police rejected the claim. A police spokesman said Rohingya protesters attacked officers, injuring several of them. They also damaged cars on the island, he said. A UNHCR spokesperson confirmed that a delegation from the refugee agency, including the UNHCR Assistant High Commissioner for Operations and the Assistant High Commissioner for Protection, visited Bhasan Char island, facilitated by the Government of Bangladesh. "The UNHCR delegation was able to meet with a large group of refugees and to listen to the various issues that they raised, which the delegation will further discuss with the Bangladesh authorities," she said. She said the delegation has now arrived in Cox's Bazar and would visit the Rohingya refugee camps Tuesday, before returning to Dhaka to meet with senior government officials. 'Dire straits' After the first transfer on December 4 to the island in the Bay of Bengal, several Rohingya told AFP they were beaten and intimidated into agreeing to be relocated. Their claims have been echoed by rights groups. The Bangladesh government insists relocation is voluntary, that the island is safe and that its facilities are far better than those in the camps. Police told AFP at least 49 Rohingya, including women and children, have been arrested in recent weeks after fleeing the island and trying to return to Cox's Bazar. But Rohingya leaders say that scores, if not hundreds, of people from their community have escaped and have since returned to Cox's Bazar. One man told AFP on condition of anonymity that he left the island by swimming and then boarding a Bangladeshi fishing boat waiting for him, paying the owner $300. He said that before agreeing to move to the island, he had been assured that he would be able to return to his family in Cox's Bazar after two weeks. "The Rohingyas in Bhashan Char are given only food and no other facilities," he said. He said promises that they would be able to work on the island, farm and fish were not fulfilled. "The Rohingyas are in dire straits there. The Cox's Bazar (camps) are a thousand times better than Bhashan Char," he said. The UN said it has not been involved in the relocation process. There was no immediate comment from the UNHCR on Monday's demonstrations.

Thousands of Rohingya protest against conditions on Bangladesh island

Deadly waves of COVID-19 are sweeping across South Asia. Families are losing loved ones, & vaccines are running out. WION correspondents show you what's happening in 4 different countries.

COVID-19 in South Asia: 4 countries, 4 Ground reports

The new Bangladesh passport will no longer prevent its legitimacy in Israel in an effort to encourage visits to the West Asian country. However, Dhaka's position on the Israel-Palestine issue remains unchanged, its Foreign Ministry said on Sunday.

Bangladesh shows support to Palestine, warn citizens against travel to Israel

Bangladesh has imposed a lockdown in Rohingya camps after a series of small outbreaks. In the congested & squalid shanties of Cox's Bazar - a widespread outbreak could prove to be deadly. Mariam Wardak gets you the report.

South Asia Diary: Lockdown at Rohingya camps in Bangladesh

Bangladesh&nbsp;authorities on Thursday imposed a lockdown in five&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;refugee&nbsp;camps&nbsp;in the country's southeast&nbsp;after&nbsp;a&nbsp;spike&nbsp;in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> cases in recent days, officials said.

The restrictions barred gatherings and movement between&nbsp;camps, which are home to more than 100,000&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;refugees,&nbsp;Bangladesh's deputy refugee commissioner Shamsud Douza told AFP.

"We imposed the restrictions from today&nbsp;after&nbsp;sudden spikes in coronavirus cases in the five&nbsp;camps," he said, adding Wednesday saw a single-day record in new infections.

Bangladesh&nbsp;authorities have set up 34&nbsp;camps&nbsp;in the country's southeastern district of Cox's Bazar for nearly 900,000&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;refugees, who fled persecution and violence in Myanmar.&nbsp;

They included some 740,000&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;refugees who fled a deadly Myanmar military offensive in August 2017.

Douza said aid workers have been restricted in the&nbsp;camps, allowing only a bare minimum people who work in health, food and gas distribution to enter.

On Wednesday alone, 45&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;tested positive for the&nbsp;virus&nbsp;out of 247 tested, said local health coordinator Toha Bhuiyan. The same number was also tested positive on Thursday.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-bangladesh-sri-lanka-nearly-out-of-covid-vaccines-say-officials-386537">Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka nearly out of Covid vaccines, say officials</a>

All five&nbsp;camps&nbsp;have been completely closed," he told AFP.

"The infection number is alarming," Anupom Barua, the Principal of Cox's Bazar Medical College, told AFP. Barua has been monitoring the coronavirus situation in the&nbsp;camps&nbsp;since last year.&nbsp;

Since the&nbsp;virus&nbsp;was detected last year in the&nbsp;camps,&nbsp;Bangladesh&nbsp;authorities have tightly controlled visitors entry into the area, amid fear that COVID-19 could wreck havoc in the squalid and extremely congested settlements.

The restrictions helped keep&nbsp;down&nbsp;cases and deaths.

An international aid worker told AFP that the authorities have already used loudspeakers to warn people in the&nbsp;camps&nbsp;of the restrictions.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/15-dead-400-missing-in-fire-at-rohingya-camp-in-bangladesh-says-un-372531">15 dead, 400 missing in fire at Rohingya camp in Bangladesh, says UN</a>

The worker said the number of cases have also jumped among the host Bangladeshi population in Teknaf, prompting the authorities to impose a lockdown in the southern-most border town.

A senior police officer told AFP that authorities have stepped up security and set up checkposts in the settlements.

Bangladesh&nbsp;launched a COVID-19 vaccination drive in February and some six million people have got one or two doses, but that campaign has not reached&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;refugees.

Bangladesh authorities on Thursday imposed a lockdown in five Rohingya refugee camps in the country's southeast after a spike in coronavirus cases in recent days, officials said.

Bangladesh authorities on Thursday imposed a lockdown in five Rohingya refugee camps in the country's southeast after a spike in coronavirus cases in recent days, officials said. The restrictions barred gatherings and movement between camps, which are home to more than 100,000 Rohingya refugees, Bangladesh's deputy refugee commissioner Shamsud Douza told AFP. "We imposed the restrictions from today after sudden spikes in coronavirus cases in the five camps," he said, adding Wednesday saw a single-day record in new infections. Bangladesh authorities have set up 34 camps in the country's southeastern district of Cox's Bazar for nearly 900,000 Rohingya refugees, who fled persecution and violence in Myanmar. They included some 740,000 Rohingya refugees who fled a deadly Myanmar military offensive in August 2017. Douza said aid workers have been restricted in the camps, allowing only a bare minimum people who work in health, food and gas distribution to enter. On Wednesday alone, 45 Rohingya tested positive for the virus out of 247 tested, said local health coordinator Toha Bhuiyan. The same number was also tested positive on Thursday. Also Read | Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka nearly out of Covid vaccines, say officials All five camps have been completely closed," he told AFP. "The infection number is alarming," Anupom Barua, the Principal of Cox's Bazar Medical College, told AFP. Barua has been monitoring the coronavirus situation in the camps since last year. Since the virus was detected last year in the camps, Bangladesh authorities have tightly controlled visitors entry into the area, amid fear that COVID-19 could wreck havoc in the squalid and extremely congested settlements. The restrictions helped keep down cases and deaths. An international aid worker told AFP that the authorities have already used loudspeakers to warn people in the camps of the restrictions. Also Read | 15 dead, 400 missing in fire at Rohingya camp in Bangladesh, says UN The worker said the number of cases have also jumped among the host Bangladeshi population in Teknaf, prompting the authorities to impose a lockdown in the southern-most border town. A senior police officer told AFP that authorities have stepped up security and set up checkposts in the settlements. Bangladesh launched a COVID-19 vaccination drive in February and some six million people have got one or two doses, but that campaign has not reached Rohingya refugees.

Bangladesh locks down Rohingya camps after virus spike

A prominent Bangladeshi senior woman investigative journalist was released from jail on Sunday after a court granted interim bail to her, a week after she was arrested on charges of violating a colonial-era official secrecy law that triggered widespread protests, including by the UN.

Rozina Islam, a senior reporter of Bangla daily Prothom Alo, the largest daily newspaper based on circulation, was detained on Monday last for over five hours by Health Ministry officials for allegedly clicking a picture of a document with her cell phone without permission. She was later arrested by the police.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/journalists-slam-pending-bangladesh-digital-security-law-168370">Journalists slam pending Bangladesh digital security law</a>

She was released from the Kashimpur Women's Central Jail on Sunday evening, a prison official told Dhaka Tribune. 
Earlier in the day, the court of Metropolitan Magistrate Mohammad Baki Billah granted her bail till July 15 on a bond of Tk 5,000 (approximately USD 59). She was also granted bail on the condition of submitting her passport.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-consider-amending-law-seen-curbing-free-speech-168600">Bangladesh to consider amending law seen curbing free speech</a>

While pronouncing the bail order, the magistrate said, "It is the duty of journalists to protect the image of society and state. I hope that from now on, we will all act responsibly."

The health ministry filed a case against Islam under the draconian 1923 Official Secrets Act that carries harsh penalties, including a possible death penalty, the Daily Star newspaper reported.

Reacting to reports of Islam's arrest, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres' spokesperson Stephane Dujarric on Tuesday said it is obviously "something concerning".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-president-hamid-gives-assent-to-digital-law-seen-curbing-free-speech-170205">Bangladesh president Hamid gives assent to digital law seen curbing free speech</a>

"Journalists need to be able to do their work free of any sort of harassment or physical threat anywhere around the world. And, obviously, that includes Bangladesh and every other country. I think we have seen the very important work that journalists all around the world have done during the pandemic, and they need to be able to continue that work, wherever they may work," Dujarric said at a regular media briefing at the United Nations headquarters in New York.

Rozina, who earned the reputation of being an investigative journalist, has in recent months published several reports exposing the health ministry's alleged malpractices during the COVID-19 pandemic, drawing public attention.

She also published several reports involving the health sector which included alleged graft in procurement at the health ministry, corruption in doctors' recruitment and how urgent medical equipment for coronavirus treatment was left at Dhaka airport for months.

Several legal experts and senior lawyers said they could not recall any instance when the 1923 Official Secrets Act was used against any journalist.

Journalists' unions and different media platforms staged demonstrations in Dhaka and other districts, demanding Islam's release and punitive actions against the officials who "harassed" her.

A prominent Bangladeshi senior woman investigative journalist was released from jail on Sunday after a court granted interim bail to her, a week after she was arrested on charges of violating a colonial-era official secrecy law that triggered widespread protests, including by the UN.

A prominent Bangladeshi senior woman investigative journalist was released from jail on Sunday after a court granted interim bail to her, a week after she was arrested on charges of violating a colonial-era official secrecy law that triggered widespread protests, including by the UN. Rozina Islam, a senior reporter of Bangla daily Prothom Alo, the largest daily newspaper based on circulation, was detained on Monday last for over five hours by Health Ministry officials for allegedly clicking a picture of a document with her cell phone without permission. She was later arrested by the police. Also read | Journalists slam pending Bangladesh digital security law She was released from the Kashimpur Women's Central Jail on Sunday evening, a prison official told Dhaka Tribune. Earlier in the day, the court of Metropolitan Magistrate Mohammad Baki Billah granted her bail till July 15 on a bond of Tk 5,000 (approximately USD 59). She was also granted bail on the condition of submitting her passport. Also read | Bangladesh to consider amending law seen curbing free speech While pronouncing the bail order, the magistrate said, "It is the duty of journalists to protect the image of society and state. I hope that from now on, we will all act responsibly." The health ministry filed a case against Islam under the draconian 1923 Official Secrets Act that carries harsh penalties, including a possible death penalty, the Daily Star newspaper reported. Reacting to reports of Islam's arrest, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres' spokesperson Stephane Dujarric on Tuesday said it is obviously "something concerning". Also read | Bangladesh president Hamid gives assent to digital law seen curbing free speech "Journalists need to be able to do their work free of any sort of harassment or physical threat anywhere around the world. And, obviously, that includes Bangladesh and every other country. I think we have seen the very important work that journalists all around the world have done during the pandemic, and they need to be able to continue that work, wherever they may work," Dujarric said at a regular media briefing at the United Nations headquarters in New York. Rozina, who earned the reputation of being an investigative journalist, has in recent months published several reports exposing the health ministry's alleged malpractices during the COVID-19 pandemic, drawing public attention. She also published several reports involving the health sector which included alleged graft in procurement at the health ministry, corruption in doctors' recruitment and how urgent medical equipment for coronavirus treatment was left at Dhaka airport for months. Several legal experts and senior lawyers said they could not recall any instance when the 1923 Official Secrets Act was used against any journalist. Journalists' unions and different media platforms staged demonstrations in Dhaka and other districts, demanding Islam's release and punitive actions against the officials who "harassed" her.

Bangladeshi woman journalist arrested under colonial-era official secrecy law released from jail

Bangladesh,&nbsp;Nepal&nbsp;and&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;are close to running&nbsp;out&nbsp;of coronavirus&nbsp;vaccines, authorities said Friday, and are hoping China and Russia will bolster South Asia's efforts to tackle a devastating pandemic wave.

COVID-19 cases and deaths have hit record levels across India and its neighbours in recent weeks and all are counting on&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;campaigns to head off the next surge.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-259591-new-covid-19-cases-4209-deaths-386414">India reports 2,59,591 new COVID-19 cases, 4,209 deaths</a>

But India's move last month to ban&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;exports because of growing domestic shortages has badly hit other countries, and the three South Asian nations have slowed their vaccination campaigns as they scour international markets for new stocks.

Bangladesh&nbsp;has about one million doses of AstraZeneca's Covishield and Chinese Sinopharm jabs and was expecting 100,000 Pfizer shots, but all will be gone in "days", government health chief A.B.M.&nbsp;Khorshed Alam said.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-approves-purchase-of-covid-vaccines-from-china-386133">Bangladesh approves purchase of Covid vaccines from China</a>

The country of 168 million people has reported some 800,000 infections and 12,200 deaths. As in other South Asian nations, experts say the true toll is much higher.

Bangladesh&nbsp;had a deal to buy 30 million Covishield doses from the Serum Institute of India, the world's biggest&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;maker. Only seven million had been delivered when India halted exports last month.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-delivers-half-a-million-vaccines-to-bangladesh-384611">China delivers half a million vaccines to Bangladesh</a>

It has since contacted China and Russia to get their&nbsp;vaccines&nbsp;and Western countries who may have surplus AstraZeneca shots.&nbsp;

One deal with China for an unspecified number of Sinopharm shots was approved on Wednesday,&nbsp;officials&nbsp;said.

But China's Ambassador Li Jiming said&nbsp;Bangladesh&nbsp;should not expect commercial supplies before December. He told the bdnews24.com portal that "the queue is too long".

'Vaccines&nbsp;must be available'

Nepal&nbsp;has an estimated 1.5 million people waiting for a second shot of Covishield, with supplies also held up by the Indian export ban. It is now getting through dwindling numbers of Sinopharm jabs given by China.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/help-pours-in-for-nepal-to-fight-the-covid-pandemic-386328">Help pours in for Nepal to fight the Covid pandemic</a>

Sri&nbsp;Lanka, with a population of 21 million, has about 115,000&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;doses left and has slowed its inoculations to 15,000 a day as it also negotiates with other countries,&nbsp;officials&nbsp;said.

The new pandemic wave saw the daily death toll hit a record 38 on Thursday.&nbsp;

India's export ban froze&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka's deal to buy 13.5 million Covishield doses from Serum International, authorities said.

Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;is now going through 600,000 gifted Sinopharm doses and is hoping to receive 26 million shots from Russia and China.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said governments and pharmaceutical companies had to help struggling Asian nations where hospitals are overflowing with sufferers.

"Tens of thousands of lives are being lost each week and&nbsp;vaccines&nbsp;must be available so that we can prevent further terrible tolls in the weeks and months ahead," said Alexander Matheou, Asia Pacific head of the IFRC.

Even India, one of the world's major pharmaceutical and&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;producers, is looking for foreign supplies.

India has already started importing Sputnik V from Russia as its ambitious target of inoculating 300 million people by the end of July is slowed by shortages.

About 150 million people have had a first dose and 40 million the second jab. But daily injections have fallen from 3.6 million a day in April to 1.4 million on Thursday.

Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar is to visit the United States next week and media reports said he would meet executives from US&nbsp;vaccine&nbsp;makers.

Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka are close to running out of coronavirus vaccines, authorities said Friday, and are hoping China and Russia will bolster South Asia's efforts to tackle a devastating pandemic wave.

Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka are close to running out of coronavirus vaccines, authorities said Friday, and are hoping China and Russia will bolster South Asia's efforts to tackle a devastating pandemic wave. COVID-19 cases and deaths have hit record levels across India and its neighbours in recent weeks and all are counting on vaccine campaigns to head off the next surge. Also Read | India reports 2,59,591 new COVID-19 cases, 4,209 deaths But India's move last month to ban vaccine exports because of growing domestic shortages has badly hit other countries, and the three South Asian nations have slowed their vaccination campaigns as they scour international markets for new stocks. Bangladesh has about one million doses of AstraZeneca's Covishield and Chinese Sinopharm jabs and was expecting 100,000 Pfizer shots, but all will be gone in "days", government health chief A.B.M. Khorshed Alam said. Also Read | Bangladesh approves purchase of Covid vaccines from China The country of 168 million people has reported some 800,000 infections and 12,200 deaths. As in other South Asian nations, experts say the true toll is much higher. Bangladesh had a deal to buy 30 million Covishield doses from the Serum Institute of India, the world's biggest vaccine maker. Only seven million had been delivered when India halted exports last month. Also Read | China delivers half a million vaccines to Bangladesh It has since contacted China and Russia to get their vaccines and Western countries who may have surplus AstraZeneca shots. One deal with China for an unspecified number of Sinopharm shots was approved on Wednesday, officials said. But China's Ambassador Li Jiming said Bangladesh should not expect commercial supplies before December. He told the bdnews24.com portal that "the queue is too long". 'Vaccines must be available' Nepal has an estimated 1.5 million people waiting for a second shot of Covishield, with supplies also held up by the Indian export ban. It is now getting through dwindling numbers of Sinopharm jabs given by China. Also Read | Help pours in for Nepal to fight the Covid pandemic Sri Lanka, with a population of 21 million, has about 115,000 vaccine doses left and has slowed its inoculations to 15,000 a day as it also negotiates with other countries, officials said. The new pandemic wave saw the daily death toll hit a record 38 on Thursday. India's export ban froze Sri Lanka's deal to buy 13.5 million Covishield doses from Serum International, authorities said. Sri Lanka is now going through 600,000 gifted Sinopharm doses and is hoping to receive 26 million shots from Russia and China. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said governments and pharmaceutical companies had to help struggling Asian nations where hospitals are overflowing with sufferers. "Tens of thousands of lives are being lost each week and vaccines must be available so that we can prevent further terrible tolls in the weeks and months ahead," said Alexander Matheou, Asia Pacific head of the IFRC. Even India, one of the world's major pharmaceutical and vaccine producers, is looking for foreign supplies. India has already started importing Sputnik V from Russia as its ambitious target of inoculating 300 million people by the end of July is slowed by shortages. About 150 million people have had a first dose and 40 million the second jab. But daily injections have fallen from 3.6 million a day in April to 1.4 million on Thursday. Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar is to visit the United States next week and media reports said he would meet executives from US vaccine makers.

Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka nearly out of COVID-19 vaccines: Officials

Authorities in Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka said on Friday that the countries were close to running out of coronavirus vaccines. They expressed hope that China and Russia would bolster South Asia's efforts to tackle the pandemic.

Covid-19 cases and deaths have hit record levels across India and its neighbours in recent weeks and all are counting on vaccine campaigns to head off the next surge.&nbsp;

However, India's decision to ban vaccine exports because of growing domestic shortages has hit other countries in the region

Bangladesh has about one million doses of AstraZeneca's Covishield and Chinese Sinopharm jabs, and was expecting 100,000 Pfizer shots, but all will be gone in "days", government health chief A.B.M. Khorshed Alam said.&nbsp;

The country of 168 million people has reported some 800,000 infections and 12,200 deaths. As in other South Asian nations, experts say the true toll is much higher.

Bangladesh had a deal to buy 30 million Covishield doses from the Serum Institute of India, the world's biggest vaccine maker. Only seven million had been delivered when India halted exports last month.

It has since contacted China and Russia to get their vaccines and Western countries that may have surplus AstraZeneca shots.&nbsp;

One deal with China for an unspecified number of Sinopharm shots was approved on Wednesday, officials said. 
But China's Ambassador Li Jiming said Bangladesh should not expect commercial supplies before December. He told the bdnews24.com portal that "the queue is too long".

'Vaccines must be available'

Nepal has an estimated 1.5 million people waiting for a second shot of Covishield, with supplies also held up by the Indian export ban. It is now getting through dwindling numbers of Sinopharm jabs given by China.

Sri Lanka, with a population of 21 million, has about 115,000 vaccine doses left and has slowed its inoculations to 15,000 a day as it also negotiates with other countries, officials said.

The new pandemic wave saw the daily death toll hit a record 38 on Thursday.&nbsp;

India's export ban froze Sri Lanka's deal to buy 13.5 million Covishield doses from Serum International, authorities said.

Sri Lanka is now going through 600,000 gifted Sinopharm doses and is hoping to receive 26 million shots from Russia and China.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said governments and pharmaceutical companies had to help struggling Asian nations where hospitals are overflowing with sufferers.

"Tens of thousands of lives are being lost each week and vaccines must be available so that we can prevent further terrible tolls in the weeks and months ahead," said Alexander Matheou, Asia Pacific head of the IFRC.

Even India, one of the world's major pharmaceutical and vaccine producers, is looking for foreign supplies. 
India has already started importing Sputnik V from Russia as its ambitious target of inoculating 300 million people by the end of July is slowed by shortages.

About 150 million people have had a first dose and 40 million the second jab. But daily injections have fallen from 3.6 million a day in April to 1.4 million on Thursday.

Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar is to visit the United States next week and media reports said he would meet executives from US vaccine makers.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Authorities in Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka said on Friday that the countries were close to running out of coronavirus vaccines. They expressed hope that China and Russia would bolster South Asia's efforts to tackle the pandemic.

Authorities in Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka said on Friday that the countries were close to running out of coronavirus vaccines. They expressed hope that China and Russia would bolster South Asia's efforts to tackle the pandemic. Covid-19 cases and deaths have hit record levels across India and its neighbours in recent weeks and all are counting on vaccine campaigns to head off the next surge. However, India's decision to ban vaccine exports because of growing domestic shortages has hit other countries in the region Bangladesh has about one million doses of AstraZeneca's Covishield and Chinese Sinopharm jabs, and was expecting 100,000 Pfizer shots, but all will be gone in "days", government health chief A.B.M. Khorshed Alam said. The country of 168 million people has reported some 800,000 infections and 12,200 deaths. As in other South Asian nations, experts say the true toll is much higher. Bangladesh had a deal to buy 30 million Covishield doses from the Serum Institute of India, the world's biggest vaccine maker. Only seven million had been delivered when India halted exports last month. It has since contacted China and Russia to get their vaccines and Western countries that may have surplus AstraZeneca shots. One deal with China for an unspecified number of Sinopharm shots was approved on Wednesday, officials said. But China's Ambassador Li Jiming said Bangladesh should not expect commercial supplies before December. He told the bdnews24.com portal that "the queue is too long". 'Vaccines must be available' Nepal has an estimated 1.5 million people waiting for a second shot of Covishield, with supplies also held up by the Indian export ban. It is now getting through dwindling numbers of Sinopharm jabs given by China. Sri Lanka, with a population of 21 million, has about 115,000 vaccine doses left and has slowed its inoculations to 15,000 a day as it also negotiates with other countries, officials said. The new pandemic wave saw the daily death toll hit a record 38 on Thursday. India's export ban froze Sri Lanka's deal to buy 13.5 million Covishield doses from Serum International, authorities said. Sri Lanka is now going through 600,000 gifted Sinopharm doses and is hoping to receive 26 million shots from Russia and China. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said governments and pharmaceutical companies had to help struggling Asian nations where hospitals are overflowing with sufferers. "Tens of thousands of lives are being lost each week and vaccines must be available so that we can prevent further terrible tolls in the weeks and months ahead," said Alexander Matheou, Asia Pacific head of the IFRC. Even India, one of the world's major pharmaceutical and vaccine producers, is looking for foreign supplies. India has already started importing Sputnik V from Russia as its ambitious target of inoculating 300 million people by the end of July is slowed by shortages. About 150 million people have had a first dose and 40 million the second jab. But daily injections have fallen from 3.6 million a day in April to 1.4 million on Thursday. Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar is to visit the United States next week and media reports said he would meet executives from US vaccine makers. (With inputs from agencies)

Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka nearly out of Covid vaccines, say officials

When Bangladesh emerged as an independent country in 1971, it was arguably the poorest country in the world or close to it.

Today, the country is growing rapidly and ranks ahead of its big neighbour India.

Planning Minister of Bangladesh MA Mannan informed the country's cabinet that the per capita income of Bangladesh has now increased from $2,064 to $2,227.

Bangladesh's per capita income is now $280 higher than India’s per capita income which is $1,947.

“Our per capita income stands at $2,227 in the fiscal year 2020-21, but the previous fiscal year's per capita income was $2,064. So, the growth rate is 9%,” said Bangladesh's Cabinet Secretary Khandker Anwarul Islam while briefing reporters.

One of the most densely populated countries in the world, Bangladesh has been battling poverty and under-development for almost five decades. 
 
In 2007, the per capita income of Bangladesh was half of that of India.

Bangladesh will overtake India in per capita GDP once again in 2025 if IMF’s latest World Economic Outlook is to be believed.

The Bangladeshi government is understandably happy and proud of this accomplishment.

Once dubbed as a “bottomless basket” by former US secretary of state Henry Kissinger, Bangladesh is now among the most vibrant economies in the world with great prospects.

According to several analysts, at present, Dhaka ranks ahead of its neighbours in terms of development. The country displays a stable civilian government and has benefited from good relations with India, its big neighbour.

As post-COVID pick-up of the Indian economy is unlikely to be as smooth as that of Bangladesh. Bangladesh matches or bests India on many fiscal, economic and social indicators. Foreign aid is less than 2% of its GDP; it’s no longer Kissinger’s ‘basket case’.

(With inputs from agencies)

When Bangladesh emerged as an independent country in 1971, it was arguably the poorest country in the world or close to it. Today, the country is growing rapidly and ranks ahead of its big neighbour India.

When Bangladesh emerged as an independent country in 1971, it was arguably the poorest country in the world or close to it. Today, the country is growing rapidly and ranks ahead of its big neighbour India. Planning Minister of Bangladesh MA Mannan informed the country's cabinet that the per capita income of Bangladesh has now increased from $2,064 to $2,227. Bangladesh's per capita income is now $280 higher than India’s per capita income which is $1,947. “Our per capita income stands at $2,227 in the fiscal year 2020-21, but the previous fiscal year's per capita income was $2,064. So, the growth rate is 9%,” said Bangladesh's Cabinet Secretary Khandker Anwarul Islam while briefing reporters. One of the most densely populated countries in the world, Bangladesh has been battling poverty and under-development for almost five decades. In 2007, the per capita income of Bangladesh was half of that of India. Bangladesh will overtake India in per capita GDP once again in 2025 if IMF’s latest World Economic Outlook is to be believed. The Bangladeshi government is understandably happy and proud of this accomplishment. Once dubbed as a “bottomless basket” by former US secretary of state Henry Kissinger, Bangladesh is now among the most vibrant economies in the world with great prospects. According to several analysts, at present, Dhaka ranks ahead of its neighbours in terms of development. The country displays a stable civilian government and has benefited from good relations with India, its big neighbour. As post-COVID pick-up of the Indian economy is unlikely to be as smooth as that of Bangladesh. Bangladesh matches or bests India on many fiscal, economic and social indicators. Foreign aid is less than 2% of its GDP; it’s no longer Kissinger’s ‘basket case’. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh outpaced India on per capita income

Bangladesh sent the second consignment of assistance to India&nbsp;earlier this week to help with the second wave of&nbsp;Covid pandemic.&nbsp;The consignment included two&nbsp;trucks&nbsp;containing 2,672 boxes of medicines and protective equipment.

The assistance was handed over by Bangladesh's Deputy High Commissioner Toufique Hasan in Kolkata to the Indian Red Cross Society.&nbsp;The consignment contains 18&nbsp;kinds of Covid-related supplies which include antibiotics, paracetamols, different kind of injections/vials, hand sanitisers, etc.

In the first week of May, Bangladesh sent India&nbsp;10,000 vials of remdesivir. They were handed over at the Indian border port of Petrapole by&nbsp;Deputy High Commissioner&nbsp;Hasan. The&nbsp;10,000&nbsp;injections were manufactured by Bangladesh's biggest pharma company BEXIMCO Pharmaceuticals and were sent after "instruction of the Prime Minister of Bangladesh", the Bangladeshi foreign ministry in a release had said.&nbsp;

The entire consignment of remdesivir&nbsp;has been direct to India's&nbsp; northeastern states of Meghalaya, Manipur, Sikkim, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram, and institutes like the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences and North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS).&nbsp;

Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina recently wrote a letter to Indian PM Modi conveying her condolences in the backdrop of the Covid crisis in the country. She "expressed her sympathy for the Indian people and reiterated Bangladesh's support to stand by her closest neighboyr India during their critical time and expressed readiness to offer support in every possible way", Bangladesh foreign ministry said.

Amid the second wave of COVID-19 pandemic in India, 42 countries have pledged support to New Delhi. Assistance from 20 countries has already reached. The aid includes oxygen-producing equipments, ventilators, oxygen cylinders.

In India's neighbourhood, Mauritius, Bangladesh, and Bhutan have reached out.&nbsp;Bhutan&nbsp;will be supplying 40 metric tonnes of liquid oxygen to Assam via a&nbsp;new plant from Motanga Industrial Estate in eastern&nbsp;Bhutan's Samdrup Jongkhar district.&nbsp;Mauritius had also sent 200 oxygen concentrators.

Bangladesh sent the second consignment of assistance to India earlier this week to help with the second wave of Covid pandemic. The consignment included two trucks containing 2,672 boxes of medicines and protective equipment.

Bangladesh sent the second consignment of assistance to India earlier this week to help with the second wave of Covid pandemic. The consignment included two trucks containing 2,672 boxes of medicines and protective equipment. The assistance was handed over by Bangladesh's Deputy High Commissioner Toufique Hasan in Kolkata to the Indian Red Cross Society. The consignment contains 18 kinds of Covid-related supplies which include antibiotics, paracetamols, different kind of injections/vials, hand sanitisers, etc. In the first week of May, Bangladesh sent India 10,000 vials of remdesivir. They were handed over at the Indian border port of Petrapole by Deputy High Commissioner Hasan. The 10,000 injections were manufactured by Bangladesh's biggest pharma company BEXIMCO Pharmaceuticals and were sent after "instruction of the Prime Minister of Bangladesh", the Bangladeshi foreign ministry in a release had said. The entire consignment of remdesivir has been direct to India's northeastern states of Meghalaya, Manipur, Sikkim, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram, and institutes like the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences and North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS). Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina recently wrote a letter to Indian PM Modi conveying her condolences in the backdrop of the Covid crisis in the country. She "expressed her sympathy for the Indian people and reiterated Bangladesh's support to stand by her closest neighboyr India during their critical time and expressed readiness to offer support in every possible way", Bangladesh foreign ministry said. Amid the second wave of COVID-19 pandemic in India, 42 countries have pledged support to New Delhi. Assistance from 20 countries has already reached. The aid includes oxygen-producing equipments, ventilators, oxygen cylinders. In India's neighbourhood, Mauritius, Bangladesh, and Bhutan have reached out. Bhutan will be supplying 40 metric tonnes of liquid oxygen to Assam via a new plant from Motanga Industrial Estate in eastern Bhutan's Samdrup Jongkhar district. Mauritius had also sent 200 oxygen concentrators.

Covid crisis: Bangladesh sends second consignment of aid to India

Indian doctors successfully performed an eight-hour long procedure to replace the femur (thigh bone) of a 12-year old Bangladeshi boy&nbsp;who was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma, a cancer that affects only the long bones. 
 
According to the doctors, the boy was discharged and is able to walk with support, barely five days after surgery.&nbsp;

Generally it is said that children diagnosed with this condition don’t survive longer than six months and the only option in the past&nbsp;used to be amputation.

However, with recent advances in treatment, chemotherapy is performed and the cancerous tumour can be shrunk, following which the limb is replaced with a prosthetic one.&nbsp;

While in the case of a kidney or liver transplant, the organ must be from a donor, in the case of bone transplants, doctors opt for a replacement that is made of a titanium-cobalt-chromium alloy.&nbsp; 
 
The team that treated the patient said he was able to walk with the support of a single crutch and could walk without support and climb stairs six weeks after discharge.&nbsp;

The orthopedic surgeon Dr R Sankar of Apollo Hospitals said that this procedure of limb salvage was a less traumatic experience for the young patient and enables limb functionality, as opposed to amputation.&nbsp;

“This child is going to grow and by the time he’s an adult, we would have to perform 2-3 surgeries to extend the limb and joint, as what we have done is an artificial joint replacement. We can say that with this artificial limb, he can have a good quality of life for nearly 20-25 years,” Dr Sankar told Zee Media when asked about the follow-up treatment.

On the non-Covid cases and emergency surgeries being done at their hospital, Dr Suneeta Reddy, managing director, Apollo Hospitals group, told WION that about 30 per cent of the cases across their hospitals were non-Covid cases, which were being handled in an area fully separated from the Covid-19 wards

With state-level lockdowns in place, road accident cases have reduced, whereas there is a spike in cases of elderly and children. sustaining fall, fracture injuries at home,&nbsp; she added.

Indian doctors successfully performed an eight-hour long procedure to replace the femur (thigh bone) of a 12-year old Bangladeshi boy who was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma, a cancer that affects only the long bones.

Indian doctors successfully performed an eight-hour long procedure to replace the femur (thigh bone) of a 12-year old Bangladeshi boy who was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma, a cancer that affects only the long bones. According to the doctors, the boy was discharged and is able to walk with support, barely five days after surgery. Generally it is said that children diagnosed with this condition don’t survive longer than six months and the only option in the past used to be amputation. However, with recent advances in treatment, chemotherapy is performed and the cancerous tumour can be shrunk, following which the limb is replaced with a prosthetic one. While in the case of a kidney or liver transplant, the organ must be from a donor, in the case of bone transplants, doctors opt for a replacement that is made of a titanium-cobalt-chromium alloy. The team that treated the patient said he was able to walk with the support of a single crutch and could walk without support and climb stairs six weeks after discharge. The orthopedic surgeon Dr R Sankar of Apollo Hospitals said that this procedure of limb salvage was a less traumatic experience for the young patient and enables limb functionality, as opposed to amputation. “This child is going to grow and by the time he’s an adult, we would have to perform 2-3 surgeries to extend the limb and joint, as what we have done is an artificial joint replacement. We can say that with this artificial limb, he can have a good quality of life for nearly 20-25 years,” Dr Sankar told Zee Media when asked about the follow-up treatment. On the non-Covid cases and emergency surgeries being done at their hospital, Dr Suneeta Reddy, managing director, Apollo Hospitals group, told WION that about 30 per cent of the cases across their hospitals were non-Covid cases, which were being handled in an area fully separated from the Covid-19 wards With state-level lockdowns in place, road accident cases have reduced, whereas there is a spike in cases of elderly and children. sustaining fall, fracture injuries at home, she added.

12-year-old cancer patient from Bangladesh walks after Indian doctors replace thigh bone

Bangladesh has again extended the ongoing lockdown to May 23 in light of the current COVID-19 situation in the country and neighbouring India, which is battling a devastating second wave of the pandemic.&nbsp;

Bangladesh's Cabinet Division announced the decision in a circular on Sunday, reports Xinhua news agency.&nbsp;

To combat the spread of the disease, Bangladesh declared an eight-day lockdown effective from April 14 to 21, which was later extended in phases to May 16.&nbsp;

According to the latest circular, offices and organisations related to revenue collection have been kept out of the purview of the restrictions.&nbsp;

Hotels and restaurants will be allowed to provide takeaway or online services during the period, it said.&nbsp;

On Saturday night, Bangladesh extended the closure of all secondary and higher secondary educational institutions following the surge of COVID-19 cases and deaths since March.&nbsp;

On Sunday, the country’s Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) reported 363 new COVID-19 cases and 25 deaths, which increased the overall infection tally and fatalities to 780,159 and 12,149.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Bangladesh has again extended the ongoing lockdown to May 23 in light of the current COVID-19 situation in the country and neighbouring India, which is battling a devastating second wave of the pandemic.

Bangladesh has again extended the ongoing lockdown to May 23 in light of the current COVID-19 situation in the country and neighbouring India, which is battling a devastating second wave of the pandemic. Bangladesh's Cabinet Division announced the decision in a circular on Sunday, reports Xinhua news agency. To combat the spread of the disease, Bangladesh declared an eight-day lockdown effective from April 14 to 21, which was later extended in phases to May 16. According to the latest circular, offices and organisations related to revenue collection have been kept out of the purview of the restrictions. Hotels and restaurants will be allowed to provide takeaway or online services during the period, it said. On Saturday night, Bangladesh extended the closure of all secondary and higher secondary educational institutions following the surge of COVID-19 cases and deaths since March. On Sunday, the country’s Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) reported 363 new COVID-19 cases and 25 deaths, which increased the overall infection tally and fatalities to 780,159 and 12,149. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Bangladesh extends lockdown till May 23 

People in Bangladesh ignored social distancing and other COVID-19 restrictions as they made their way back to their families to celebrate Eid. Despite nationwide lockdown in several check points tens of thousands of people managed to leave the capital Dhaka.

Bangladesh: People ignored COVID-19 restrictions to make their way back home for Eid

Bangladesh government has banned inter district travel in an effort to control the surge of Coronavirus. However, with the festival of Eid approaching thousand of migrant workers and people from different region are defying COVID-19 restrictions to return to their native villages and celebrate Eid with their families.

Bangladesh: People defy COVID-19 restrictions to rush home for Eid

Bangladesh government has rejected a petition by jailed former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia to go abroad on a medical visit, saying 'there is no judicial provision that permits a jailed convict to go abroad for treatment'.

Bangladesh: Jailed former PM Khaleda Zia’s plea for 'overseas treatment' rejected

Bangladesh on Thursday handed over 10,000 vials of Remdesivir injection to India as part of its medical assistance amid deteriorating COVID-19 situation in the neighbouring country. The doses of Remdesivir were produced by Beximco, one of the biggest pharmaceutical companies of Bangladesh.

Bangladesh sends 10,000 vials of Beximco's Remdesivir to India

Joint Commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan police, Mahbubur Rahman on Wednesday said that the Hefazat militants have confessed to creating a Taliban state in Bangladesh, similar to Afghanistan. 
 
Rahman said: "The militants have said that several Jamaat-e-Islam and Hefazat leaders are linked to the militant outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Besides, the police have also collected various pieces of evidence in connection with the matter. Mamunul Huq and Harun Izhar, the Islamist radicals led the massacre and anarchy to oust the government headed by Sheikh Hasina, mostly funded by the militant outfit of Pakistan. 
 
Those are determined to create a Taliban state in Bangladesh that goes against the present secular government. The militant leaders said that they are against the values of our 1971 Liberation War." 
 
Meanwhile, a six-member delegation of Hefazat Islam, the militant outfit led by Nurul Islam Jehadi, Secretary-General of the defunct Hefazat-e-Islam Committee and Member Secretary of the current convening committee, met the Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal. 
 
Mahfuzul Haque, brother of imprisoned Hefazat top militant Mamunul Haque, Secretary-General of (Qawmi Madrasa Board -Befaqul Madarisil Arabia Bangladesh -Befaq), Principal Mohammad Mizanur Rahman Chowdhury and Ataullah Hafizi were also in the team of the militants' leaders. 
 
The militant leaders went to the Minister`s Dhanmondi official residence on Tuesday night. 
 
State Minister for Religion, Faridul Haque Khan was present at the residence of the Home Minister at that time. 
 
At the meeting, the Hefazat leaders demanded an end to the arrest and harassment of the organisation`s leaders and activists, release of the arrested leaders and reopening of the Qawmi Madrasas, the breeding ground of the militants. 
 
"The Home Minister has assured that our demands would be taken into consideration at the meeting," said Nurul Islam Jehadi to the media. 
 
Earlier, Bangladesh`s Prime Minister and leader of the Parliament Sheikh Hasina on April 4 has promised the "strongest possible action" against Islamist radicals responsible for violent protests over Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s visit to the country, in her speech to the lawmakers in the Parliament. 
 
She also warned that the Hefazat radicals would face "dire consequences" if they continued their violence over Modi's visit. 
 
Fourteen supporters of the radical Hefazat-e-Islam group were killed in police shootings across the country as Hasina`s government stood by its decision to invite Modi as a guest of honour for celebrations of the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh`s independence on March 26. 
 
"We had invited the Indian Prime Minister to express our gratitude to Indian people for their unstinted support during the 1971 Liberation War," Hasina added. 
 
Earlier, the Hefazat leaders met the Home Minister on April 19.

Joint Commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan police, Mahbubur Rahman on Wednesday said that the Hefazat militants have confessed to creating a Taliban state in Bangladesh, similar to Afghanistan.

Joint Commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan police, Mahbubur Rahman on Wednesday said that the Hefazat militants have confessed to creating a Taliban state in Bangladesh, similar to Afghanistan. Rahman said: "The militants have said that several Jamaat-e-Islam and Hefazat leaders are linked to the militant outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Besides, the police have also collected various pieces of evidence in connection with the matter. Mamunul Huq and Harun Izhar, the Islamist radicals led the massacre and anarchy to oust the government headed by Sheikh Hasina, mostly funded by the militant outfit of Pakistan. Those are determined to create a Taliban state in Bangladesh that goes against the present secular government. The militant leaders said that they are against the values of our 1971 Liberation War." Meanwhile, a six-member delegation of Hefazat Islam, the militant outfit led by Nurul Islam Jehadi, Secretary-General of the defunct Hefazat-e-Islam Committee and Member Secretary of the current convening committee, met the Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal. Mahfuzul Haque, brother of imprisoned Hefazat top militant Mamunul Haque, Secretary-General of (Qawmi Madrasa Board -Befaqul Madarisil Arabia Bangladesh -Befaq), Principal Mohammad Mizanur Rahman Chowdhury and Ataullah Hafizi were also in the team of the militants' leaders. The militant leaders went to the Minister`s Dhanmondi official residence on Tuesday night. State Minister for Religion, Faridul Haque Khan was present at the residence of the Home Minister at that time. At the meeting, the Hefazat leaders demanded an end to the arrest and harassment of the organisation`s leaders and activists, release of the arrested leaders and reopening of the Qawmi Madrasas, the breeding ground of the militants. "The Home Minister has assured that our demands would be taken into consideration at the meeting," said Nurul Islam Jehadi to the media. Earlier, Bangladesh`s Prime Minister and leader of the Parliament Sheikh Hasina on April 4 has promised the "strongest possible action" against Islamist radicals responsible for violent protests over Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s visit to the country, in her speech to the lawmakers in the Parliament. She also warned that the Hefazat radicals would face "dire consequences" if they continued their violence over Modi's visit. Fourteen supporters of the radical Hefazat-e-Islam group were killed in police shootings across the country as Hasina`s government stood by its decision to invite Modi as a guest of honour for celebrations of the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh`s independence on March 26. "We had invited the Indian Prime Minister to express our gratitude to Indian people for their unstinted support during the 1971 Liberation War," Hasina added. Earlier, the Hefazat leaders met the Home Minister on April 19.

'Jamaat-Hefazat leaders determined to create Taliban state in Bangladesh'

As the COVID-19 pandemic rages Bangladesh, the country has decided to extend the nationwide lockdown till May 16. This decision has taken place to contain and combat the surge of coronavirus.

Nationwide lockdown in Bangladesh extended till May 16

A group of volunteers in the Bangladesh capital Dhaka dished up free Ramadan meals for the poor on Sunday (May 2) amid an extended lockdown aimed at curbing the spread of the coronavirus.

Volunteers dish up Ramadan meals for the poor amid Bangladesh lockdown

An overloaded speedboat allegedly driven by an inexperienced underage boy capsized in Bangladesh after collision with a sand laden vessel, killing at least 26 people while many others were missing, police said on Monday.

The accident happened in Banglabazar ferry ghat on Monday morning when the overloaded speedboat collided with the vessel.

Following the incident, rescuers have retrieved at least 26 bodies, police said.

"We have retrieved 26 bodies, rescued alive five others . . . But searches are underway for more as several speedboat passengers are feared missing," a police official at the scene told reporters.

Ashiqur Rahman, the police inspector of a nearby ferry terminal, said that they were informed the driver of the speedboat was an inexperienced underage boy.

''Witnesses and survivors said the boat was carrying over 30 passengers and the vessel was transporting sand in the Padma River near the town of Shibchar of Madaripur,''&nbsp;he said.

Authorities said a rescue operation was on.&nbsp;

An overloaded speedboat allegedly driven by an inexperienced underage boy capsized in Bangladesh after collision with a sand laden vessel, killing at least 26 people while many others were missing, police said on Monday.

An overloaded speedboat allegedly driven by an inexperienced underage boy capsized in Bangladesh after collision with a sand laden vessel, killing at least 26 people while many others were missing, police said on Monday. The accident happened in Banglabazar ferry ghat on Monday morning when the overloaded speedboat collided with the vessel. Following the incident, rescuers have retrieved at least 26 bodies, police said. "We have retrieved 26 bodies, rescued alive five others . . . But searches are underway for more as several speedboat passengers are feared missing," a police official at the scene told reporters. Ashiqur Rahman, the police inspector of a nearby ferry terminal, said that they were informed the driver of the speedboat was an inexperienced underage boy. ''Witnesses and survivors said the boat was carrying over 30 passengers and the vessel was transporting sand in the Padma River near the town of Shibchar of Madaripur,'' he said. Authorities said a rescue operation was on.

Twenty six killed in boat accident in Bangladesh

Bangladesh will close its land borders with India for the next 14 days due to the unprecedented surge of coronavirus cases in the neighbouring nation, Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen announced here on Sunday. &nbsp;

India logged a record of 3,49,691 new coronavirus infections in a day on Sunday, taking its total tally of COVID-19 cases to 1,69,60,172. The death toll increased to 1,92,311 with a record 2,767 daily new fatalities, according to the Union Health Ministry data.&nbsp;

Passenger travel from India to Bangladesh via land will remain closed from Monday for 14 days, Momen told reporters here.&nbsp;

"The decision was taken in view of the rapid increase of coronavirus cases in India...We are closing the land routes for passengers for the time being," he said.&nbsp;

The minister, however, said the trade between the two countries would continue.&nbsp;

There would be no ban on the movement of cargo vehicles, Momen said.&nbsp;

Air travel between India and Bangladesh has already been suspended since April 14 with the rise in infections.&nbsp;

Home Minister Asaduzzamman Khan Kamal also said that the authorities have decided to close the borders with India for two weeks.&nbsp;

"The land routes with India will be shut from April 26," he said.&nbsp;

Bangladesh's National Technical Advisory Committee (NTAC) on COVID-19 had earlier suggested border closure with India in view of the surging number of coronavirus cases. It had also suggested that the land routes should not reopen until there is an improvement in the coronavirus situation in India.&nbsp;

Bangladesh and India share land borders in West Bengal and the northeastern states of Assam, Tripura, Mizoram and Meghalaya.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Bangladesh will close its land borders with India for the next 14 days due to the unprecedented surge of coronavirus cases in the neighbouring nation, Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen announced here on Sunday.

Bangladesh will close its land borders with India for the next 14 days due to the unprecedented surge of coronavirus cases in the neighbouring nation, Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen announced here on Sunday. India logged a record of 3,49,691 new coronavirus infections in a day on Sunday, taking its total tally of COVID-19 cases to 1,69,60,172. The death toll increased to 1,92,311 with a record 2,767 daily new fatalities, according to the Union Health Ministry data. Passenger travel from India to Bangladesh via land will remain closed from Monday for 14 days, Momen told reporters here. "The decision was taken in view of the rapid increase of coronavirus cases in India...We are closing the land routes for passengers for the time being," he said. The minister, however, said the trade between the two countries would continue. There would be no ban on the movement of cargo vehicles, Momen said. Air travel between India and Bangladesh has already been suspended since April 14 with the rise in infections. Home Minister Asaduzzamman Khan Kamal also said that the authorities have decided to close the borders with India for two weeks. "The land routes with India will be shut from April 26," he said. Bangladesh's National Technical Advisory Committee (NTAC) on COVID-19 had earlier suggested border closure with India in view of the surging number of coronavirus cases. It had also suggested that the land routes should not reopen until there is an improvement in the coronavirus situation in India. Bangladesh and India share land borders in West Bengal and the northeastern states of Assam, Tripura, Mizoram and Meghalaya. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh closes land borders with India amid spike in COVID-19 cases  

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