COMILLA: Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader said that some 18 to 20 thousand Rohingyas from Myanmar have already entered into Bangladesh creating a humanitarian crisis in the border areas.

He made the remark to reporters while inspecting the conditions of roads and highways in Bishwa road area of Paduabazar in Comilla on Thursday evening (Aug 31). 

In response to a query for opening border to Rohingyas who are fleeing Myanmar, the minister said, “United Nations (UN) has asked us to open the border. But if we do that then where shall we put them? Opening border can create social along with humanitarian crisis. Besides there might be some elements of conspiracy involve in here. So we are not really in a favorable position to do such thing.” 

“I must say to those who have already entered into the country that we don’t have the ability to provide shelter or accommodate them in any way.”

In a separate query about the road condition for Eid home travelers, he said all the highways in the country are ready for vehicular movements. Travelers are experiencing smooth and hassle free journey to their home.

BDST: 2130 HRS, AUG 31, 2017
AP