Pakistan officials worried that people are not taking the COVID guidelines seriously
Pakistan may have to reimpose the lockdown if the standard operational procedures (SOPs) are not followed and people continue to flout guidelines, Federal Planning and Development Minister Asad Umar warned.
Presiding the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) meeting, the planning minister was worried over the public’s complete disregard of maintaining social distance in markets upon easing the lockdown.
“It seems people believe that lockdown has been completely lifted,” the minister said. “Do shop for Eid. But do not put your loved ones in danger” he said, hoping that people would understand the gravity of the situation.
Several photos and videos shared on social media showed traffic jams and crowded markets as people were seen shopping for Eid-ul-Fitr after the lockdown ease.
Pakistan government allowed businesses to reopen in phases from May 9, citing the economic havoc due to the restrictions despite the continuous daily spike in COVID-19 cases.
The virus has now infected more than 34,300 people in Pakistan according to the official portal. COVID-19 has claimed at least 737 lives in the country.
NCOC asks provinces to ensure strict SOPs compliance, raise awareness
On May 13, NCOC asked all the provincial representatives to ensure strict compliance of SOPs amid public awareness to contain the risk of COVID-19 pandemic spread.
The lockdown was relaxed for public convenience along with the condition of SOPs to be followed at the optimum level, Asad Umar said.
“The lockdown has been relieved but the risk of the virus contagion is still there. People must realize this so that they don’t contract coronavirus” he said, requesting the people to take things seriously and follow the guidelines.
A comprehensive media campaign based on the safety guidelines and protocols was also being aired through print, radio, electronic and digital media portals for media, he added.
He urged the provinces to ensure effective compliance of the safety protocols as it was the only effective tool to contain the risk of pandemic spread in the country.