Masks mandatory for all: health ministry circular says

The ministry of health today issued a circular making the use of masks mandatory in all institutions and public settings.

"Officers and employees of any government, semi-government, autonomous and non-government offices and their clients, who visit certain offices for service, will have to use masks," read the circular signed by Dr Md Sabbir Ahmed Osmani, deputy secretary of the Health Services Division of the ministry.

This rule is applicable for everyone staying in Bangladesh, the circular added.

The ministry also formed an organisation-wise indicative list of officials who will enforce the rule.  

The authorities concerned of government and non-government healthcare establishments and respective establishment authorities will ensure it.

In educational and religious establishments, including mosques and temples, the local administration and managing committee of the respective organisations will have to ensure people are wearing masks.

In shopping malls and local markets, all sellers and buyers will have to use masks and the local authority and market managing committee will ensure it.

For public transport, law enforcement agencies and owners' associations will have the responsibility of ensuring every driver, helper and passenger is wearing a mask.

For garments factories, respective authorities and owners will ensure the directive is implemented.

The ministry has also made wearing masks mandatory for all hawkers, rickshaw- and van-pullers, pedestrians, and workers in hotels and restaurants.

All people participating in any social programmes will also have to wear masks. People living with Covid-19 patients at home have also been asked to wear the masks indoors.