• Wednesday, April 24, 2024

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Qatar bans entry of people from Bangladesh, 13 other countries

A passenger wearing a facemask as a preventive measure against the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak, takes a nap as he waits to board his plane at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka on March 8, 2020. – The World Health Organization (WHO) has described worldwide virus cases passing the 100,000-mark as a “sombre moment”. (Photo by JEWEL SAMAD/AFP via Getty Images)

By: LakshmiPS

Qatar has temporarily banned entry of people coming from Bangladesh and 13 other countries in the wake of coronavirus outbreak.

The temporary ban would also be applicable on people coming from India, China, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Syria and Thailand.

“This decision comes as a preventive measure due to the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) worldwide,” Qatar government said in a statement dated March 8.

In a statement on Monday, Qatar Airways said it was placing a “temporary hold” on stopover services in Doha. Also, passengers whose final destination is Doha will not permitted.

“Due to the rise in coronavirus cases around the world, we are placing a temporary hold on stopover services in Doha for the purpose of connection, booked through our partner and subsidiary, Discover Qatar, or booked directly through qatarairways.com. Passengers with onward connections will not be permitted to leave Hamad International Airport (HIA),” the airline said.

The carrier has decided to cancel all current stopover bookings.

“A full refund will be offered, with support offered to make alternative travel plans with Qatar Airways,” it added.

Further, the airline said it was working closely with global and national authorities to implement the latest advice and guidance on coronavirus and operate its services accordingly.

(PTI)

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