Ashashuni (Satkhira) Correspondent 

In the busy markets, roads, public transports, educational institutions, and office areas of Ashashuni upazila in Satkhira, health guidelines are being largely ignored. 

Despite a recent resurgence in COVID-19 cases, public awareness and caution appear to have significantly declined. Most people are no longer wearing masks; those who do often wear them improperly. As a result, local healthcare professionals and public health experts warn of a renewed risk of infectious disease outbreaks.

A field visit to various locations including Budhata Bus Stand, Chapra Bazar, Kulliar Mor, Boro Dol Intersection, and Ashashuni Sadar reveals that almost all forms of public transport—buses, battery-run auto-rickshaws, vans, and motorcycles—are overcrowded. Nearly 70% of passengers and drivers were seen without masks. There were no visible posters promoting health safety, nor was there any sign of administrative monitoring.

A senior official at Ashashuni Upazila Health Complex, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “After the pandemic, people have become complacent. They believe the danger is over, but viruses like COVID-19, influenza, and others are still active. Mask usage is a major indicator of health awareness, and in this area, that practice has nearly vanished.”

Anarul Islam, a trader at Khajra Bazar, commented, “People laugh when you talk about wearing masks. Some even say, ‘Corona is over—why wear a mask now?’”

A similar scenario was observed around educational institutions. Students arriving for private tuition in the morning and evening were seen in groups, without masks. Many teachers were also found to be ignoring the guidelines. According to sources at the Upazila Education Office, although all schools were given instructions to follow health protocols, lack of monitoring has caused implementation to falter.

An official from the Ashashuni Upazila Administration stated, “We are trying to raise awareness about mask usage. However, due to staff shortages and a lack of field-level volunteers, enforcement has become difficult. We plan to coordinate with the Upazila Health Department and local representatives to intensify awareness campaigns soon.”

A local pharmacy owner in Ashashuni Sadar reported that mask demand has dropped sharply. “Previously, I sold 50 to 60 masks per day. Now, I barely sell five. Even though a standard 3-ply mask costs only 7 taka, people are unwilling to buy them,” he said.

Experts warn that in addition to COVID-19, the prevalence of diseases like dengue, influenza, pneumonia, and heatstroke is also rising. They emphasize that alongside raising awareness, the government should distribute free masks and hand sanitizers to the underprivileged and resume regular public health campaigns.