Amid a surge in COVID-19 cases in India, health precautions have been stepped up at Benapole, the main land port of Bangladesh to ensure compliance with health and safety guidelines. A sub-assistant medical officer is now stationed at the site.
According to reports, COVID-19 cases are on the rise across several states of India where a new Omicron variant is already spreading in parts of the country. Experts fear this variant may also affect Bangladesh. In response, authorities have been instructed to implement strict health safety protocols, including screening measures, at all land borders, seaports, and international airports across the country.
This alert was issued through an official order signed on June 4 by Professor Dr. Md. Farhad Hossain, Director (Disease Control) of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).
Against this backdrop, health advisories are being provided and strict health screenings are being conducted for suspected passengers arriving from India and other affected countries through immigration and International Health Regulations (IHR) health desks at land ports, seaports, and airports.
Abdul Majid, the appointed sub-assistant medical officer at Benapole Check post stated that passengers returning from India are being examined for symptoms of coronavirus.
He mentioned that if anyone shows symptoms of COVID-19 or Omicron, they will be isolated at the local government Upazila Health Complex.
Conversations with returning passengers revealed that, unlike Bangladesh, there are no screenings or tests being conducted for COVID-19 or Omicron in many parts of India.
COVID-19 was first detected in Bangladesh in early 2020. Since then, the country has experienced several waves of infection, leading to a public health crisis. The government had issued health guidelines including mandatory mask-wearing, maintaining social distancing, and avoiding public gatherings. However, as the infection rate declined over time, these restrictions were largely relaxed.
Recently, there has been a slight uptick in COVID-19 cases in the country again. As a result, the government has renewed its call for strict adherence to health guidelines to ensure public safety.
Aman, Kushtia
9/6/2025