PM says “No” to lockdown across Pakistan
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan has said “No” to lockdown across the Pakistan, but urged the public to follow coronavirus standard operating procedures to avoid a “complete lockdown”. However said army’s help can be sought to impelement SOPs.
PM Khan addressed the nation after chairing an important meeting of the National Coordination Committee (NCC) Friday afternoon to discuss update on the new coronavirus restrictions as the country battles the third wave of the virus.
It was expected that a lockdown would be imposed in cities where the positivity ratio is above 10%.
However, Prime Minister announced that a lockdown would not be implemented for now as it will affect the working class and their businesses.
He said help will be taken from the Pakistan Army to implement coronavirus SOPs.
Mr Khan added that if we are not careful, the situation in Pakistan will be similar to that of India in the next one or two weeks.
Later, Federal Planning and Development Minister Asad Umar listed down some of the important decisions taken at the NCC meeting.
- Schools in cities with positivity rates above 5% closed until Eid, including classes 9-12
- Markets to stay open till 6pm. Only essential businesses can operate after 6pm. A list of essential business will be issued.
- Outdoor and indoor dining banned until Eid. Takeaway and deliveries will be allowed.
- Offices capacity at 50% and are to be closed daily at 2pm.
- Eid shopping will not be possible after iftar.
- 50% work from home policy to be implemented in offices.
