Dhaka’s elite clubs plan closures amid coronavirus

FT ONLINE

Posh clubs in Dhaka are considering closing, in the wake of coronavirus, to prevent public gatherings.

Dhaka Club Limited will be closed from March 20 at midnight, until further notice, due to the prevailing coronavirus situation.

The decision came after an emergency meeting of the executive committee of the club March 17.

The club Secretary Commander Zahirul Alam (Retd) issued a circular on behalf of the executive committee on Tuesday which is available on the website of the club.

Established in 1911, the club has more than 3,000 members.

Other elite Dhaka clubs are also planning to close their operations for an uncertain period, according to the club officials.

Saiful Islam, president of Gulshan Club Limited, said, "Gulshan Club has around 3,000 members. We are very concerned about the spread of coronavirus. Considering public health concerns, we might close our club after the board of directors meeting on Wednesday."

Uttara Club has around 1,400 members.

Tariqur Rahman, president of the club, said, "Our executive committee meeting is scheduled to be held on Wednesday night to discuss the current situations of coronavirus and their decisions about operating the club in this context."

Banani Club has already closed some of its facilities including a banquet hall and a few indoor games.

Hasanul Bari, member (admin) of the club said, "We have around 750 members. The executive committee meeting of the club will be held on Wednesday at 8 PM."

"Already we have closed some of the club's facilities to prevent public gatherings. Now, the final decision on whether to shut down the entire club will be made at an executive committee meeting," he added.