11-point restriction to curb Omicron variant effective from Thursday

The 11-point restriction imposed by the government to prevent the new and highly transmissible Omicron variant of coronavirus is coming into effect from Thursday.

A notification in this regard was issued by the Cabinet Division on Monday afternoon.

According to the notification, the decision was taken at a meeting to review the prevalence of the new type of Covid-19 variant and the transmission of the disease in the country. In a bid to prevent the new strain's escalaltion, the following restrictions have been imposed on the overall public activities or movement.

The 11 restrictions issued are:

1. It is mandatory for everyone to wear a mask in all public places including shops, shopping malls markets, hotels and restaurants. Legal action will be taken against those failing to maintain the rule protocol.

2. Masks must be used outside the office and court. Mobile courts will be set up across the country to prevent deviations in compliance with health rules.

3. One must show the Covid-19 vaccination certificate to dine in a restaurant and stay in a residential hotel.

4. All students above the age of 12 years will not be allowed to enter the educational institution without the vaccination certificate after the date fixed by the Ministry of Education.

5. The number of screenings at land ports, seaports and airports will be increased. Cruises must be banned from entering the ports. Land ports will also be able to have only drivers with incoming trucks. No assistant can enter. Visitors accompanying foreigners must stop entering the airport.

6. Trains, buses and launches can ply with half the capacity. The concerned authorities will issue specific instructions in this regard along with the date of implementation. Drivers and assistants of all types of vehicles must have the Covid-19 vaccine certificate.

7. Compulsory Covid-19 vaccine certificate must be displayed when required, including passengers from abroad.

8. Imams will make the people concerned about the observance of hygiene rules and wearing of masks in the gatherings of Jumu'ah prayers in all mosques. Deputy Commissioner and Upazila Nirbahi Officers will ensure this matter.

9. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare will take necessary measures that everyone is vaccinated. In this case, they will be assisted by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

10. All social, political, religious ceremonies and gatherings in open spaces are banned until further notice.

11. In case of any unsual situation in any area, the local administration will take action in consultation with the concerned.