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Situation is grim and infection/death rates are also increasing so is it time for the Government to take decisive action NOW?
-
Contact the PP Team
Should there be a complete nationwide lockdown in Pakistan right now?
- Thread starter MenInG
- Start date
leg-side-flick
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Lockdown for how many days???
How will the state prepare itself during lockdown?
How will daily wagers be compensated?
Lockdown is used to break the chain, but once you open it, it's back to zero unless something concrete has been done. Eg. India...
Here it's now being used by administration to abdicate it's responsibility and I am glad that Imran Khan isn't thinking like other Indian politicians... Good for you...
The only hope is vaccination, everything else looks meaningless frankly..
US and Israel have shown the way...
How will the state prepare itself during lockdown?
How will daily wagers be compensated?
Lockdown is used to break the chain, but once you open it, it's back to zero unless something concrete has been done. Eg. India...
Here it's now being used by administration to abdicate it's responsibility and I am glad that Imran Khan isn't thinking like other Indian politicians... Good for you...
The only hope is vaccination, everything else looks meaningless frankly..
US and Israel have shown the way...
MRSN
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The thing is Pakistan is definitely not as good as India when it comes to health sector and even India is have a really really bad times. Imagine if things keep escalating like they are now Pakistan is going to see some really hard time. We don't even have resources like India and even they are struggling. We really should adopt survival policy instead of waiting for things to get ugly because we are not better equipped to tackle if they do.
MRSN
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Please get updated on how things are bad in Pakistan right now. No one is following the SOPs and hospitals are full of covid patients. Situation is so bad that some hospitals are not even taking covid patients anymore.
Lockdown for few weeks will not be that bad for now especially when things are under control. We should adopt survival policy now instead of waiting for things to get bad like India.
leg-side-flick
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Bhai, I don't know much about Pakistan, but it's really screwed up in India
In Maharashtra ( a state in India) cases were shooting daily and once it hit 60K per day, the state locked us down, it's been 2 weeks but still the number hasn't come down. We are hovering around 60/70 K per day...
It could be argued that it would have been much higher without lockdown but at some point they have to open it and I don't see any preparation at their end...
It will be just extension of curfew
So the question before you impose it should be,
How many days will I do it
What will I do during those days
Ahmad-GERMANFC
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Almost certainly they should do strict lockdown t last two weeks of Ramzan.
Our idiot population will go crazy with eid shopping and we need to control that wktb a danda
Our idiot population will go crazy with eid shopping and we need to control that wktb a danda
pakistani pride
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And how will people afford food etc?
Lockdowns are not the solution.
Lockdowns are not the solution.
Itachi
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lockdown is just a tool. if there's no proper use of it, it will do more harm than good. it's not a solution. it's just buys you time to bring solution. if you don't have one, it's futile.
Runner Up
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No use. When 99 percent people don't wear mask and follow SOPs there won't be any improvement.
pakistani pride
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Can you show a study or proof what kind of masks or masks in general can prevent the spread of a virus?
pakistani pride
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Locksdowns in Pak & India do not work. Just impossible. People the majority survives on daily wages. People need to work to have roti.
Bewal Express
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No is the simple answer. The CV will be with us for the few years, so how long and how often would be the obvious questions. Educate the people to understand the virus but as we have seen that doesn't work either. There are no answers.
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Something is better than nothing.
Attachments
Itachi
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https://www.pnas.org/content/118/4/e2014564118
PNAS, despite the funny name, is a well-established journal. This was found after 5 seconds of googling.
Bigboii
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Hell no!
Gov did a good job with smart lockdowns last year,
They should try that, a full country wide lockdown rn is stupid especially When the smart lockdowns were proven to have worked
Gov did a good job with smart lockdowns last year,
They should try that, a full country wide lockdown rn is stupid especially When the smart lockdowns were proven to have worked
Gharib Aadmi
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Absolutely no lockdown. The cure can not be worse than the disease.
The people advocating lockouts have white collar jobs, and can easily work at home. Or they work in the medical field and are assured of getting a paycheck.
For the poor people in Pakistan a lockdown is worse than Corona.
The people advocating lockouts have white collar jobs, and can easily work at home. Or they work in the medical field and are assured of getting a paycheck.
For the poor people in Pakistan a lockdown is worse than Corona.
Itachi
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Agreed. People living in especially in west isn't familiar with the troubles that third world countries have to go through for lockdown.
be it India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh.... complete lockdown isn't a viable option anymore.
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The Punjab government has notified extension in restrictions till May 17 to contain the spread of Covid-19, as the third wave, fuelled by the UK variant, continued to spiral out of control in the province.
As per the notification issued by the Primary and Secondary Health Care Department on Saturday, the restrictions have been tightened in 19 districts of the province including Lahore and Rawalpindi amid the upsurge in coronavirus cases.
All kinds of gatherings (indoor and outdoor) will remain banned, including social, cultural, political, sports and miscellaneous events.
“There shall be a complete ban on indoor and outdoor dining and only takeaway/home delivery shall be allowed,” read the communiqué.
The notification states that the business activities will be allowed till 6pm on weekdays and will remain completely shut two days a week.
The cinemas, theatres and amusement parks will remain completely closed in the province. Whereas, shrines will remain shut in the districts with above 8% positivity ratio.
Interprovincial public transport will also remain closed on Saturday and Sunday.
However, essential services like pharmacies and grocery stores among others are exempted from such restrictions.
The health department said the coronavirus positivity ratio has exceeded eight per cent in Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Sargodha, Rahim Yar Khan, Gujranwala, Bahawalnagar and other districts of the province.
All public and private offices across the province are allowed to operate from 9am till 2pm with 50% attendance. Besides, other restrictions including mandatory face mask wearing in public spaces will remain in place, as per the official handout.
Punjab on Saturday reported at least 3,073 new coronavirus cases during the past 24 hours, taking the provincial tally to 285,542.
According to the health department, at least 98 more patients succumbed to the pandemic in the province as the total reached 7,897.
Earlier in the day, the provincial government also ordered the closure of colleges in 25 districts of the province.
According to a notification, colleges in Rawalpindi, Lahore, Toba Tek Singh, Rahim Yar Khan, DG Khan, Bahawalpur, Sheikhupura, Sahiwal, Sialkot, Sargodha, Multan, Okara, Jhang, Khanewal, Kasur, Bahawalnagar, Chakwal, Bhakkar, Faizabad, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Khushab, Lodhran, Mandi Bahauddin, Pakpattan will remain closed.
It said that colleges have been closed in districts where the coronavirus positivity ratio is over five per cent.
Universities in these districts will continue their educational activities as per the SOPs issued by the Higher Education Commission, the notification further read.
Express Tribune
As per the notification issued by the Primary and Secondary Health Care Department on Saturday, the restrictions have been tightened in 19 districts of the province including Lahore and Rawalpindi amid the upsurge in coronavirus cases.
All kinds of gatherings (indoor and outdoor) will remain banned, including social, cultural, political, sports and miscellaneous events.
“There shall be a complete ban on indoor and outdoor dining and only takeaway/home delivery shall be allowed,” read the communiqué.
The notification states that the business activities will be allowed till 6pm on weekdays and will remain completely shut two days a week.
The cinemas, theatres and amusement parks will remain completely closed in the province. Whereas, shrines will remain shut in the districts with above 8% positivity ratio.
Interprovincial public transport will also remain closed on Saturday and Sunday.
However, essential services like pharmacies and grocery stores among others are exempted from such restrictions.
The health department said the coronavirus positivity ratio has exceeded eight per cent in Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Sargodha, Rahim Yar Khan, Gujranwala, Bahawalnagar and other districts of the province.
All public and private offices across the province are allowed to operate from 9am till 2pm with 50% attendance. Besides, other restrictions including mandatory face mask wearing in public spaces will remain in place, as per the official handout.
Punjab on Saturday reported at least 3,073 new coronavirus cases during the past 24 hours, taking the provincial tally to 285,542.
According to the health department, at least 98 more patients succumbed to the pandemic in the province as the total reached 7,897.
Earlier in the day, the provincial government also ordered the closure of colleges in 25 districts of the province.
According to a notification, colleges in Rawalpindi, Lahore, Toba Tek Singh, Rahim Yar Khan, DG Khan, Bahawalpur, Sheikhupura, Sahiwal, Sialkot, Sargodha, Multan, Okara, Jhang, Khanewal, Kasur, Bahawalnagar, Chakwal, Bhakkar, Faizabad, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Khushab, Lodhran, Mandi Bahauddin, Pakpattan will remain closed.
It said that colleges have been closed in districts where the coronavirus positivity ratio is over five per cent.
Universities in these districts will continue their educational activities as per the SOPs issued by the Higher Education Commission, the notification further read.
Express Tribune
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KARACHI: Amid growing cases of Covid-19 across the country, the federal government on Saturday warned that it would only wait for a week and if the situation did not improve, then imposing a complete lockdown would be its key option to save the people’s lives.
The warning came from a key member of the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf government and its spokesman who reiterated that Prime Minister Imran Khan had always resisted lockdown but he would not give priority to the economy over the people’s lives.
“Our government is trying its best to handle the coronavirus situation with the best available tools and options,” said federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Chaudhry Fawad Hussain at a press conference at the Governor House. “We make it possible to keep things going amid the pandemic because when it comes to strict measures, the daily wage earners and poor segments of society are hit hard. Secondly traders who make money most in this month [Ramazan]. So we appeal to the traders and the people to please take care and follow the guidelines. Ultimately if the people’s lives come under threat, we would have to go for drastic measures, including complete lockdown.”
He recalled the past stance of PM Khan who during the first wave of the pandemic had resisted imposition of lockdown and wanted to keep the economy open along with adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) defined by the health experts.
“PM Imran Khan has always resisted lockdown,” the minister said. “He always wants such a system that the economy keeps moving so at least the poor segments of society don’t come under pressure. But now we would wait for another week and if the situation doesn’t improve, definitely we would have to think about complete lockdown.”
Says federal govt wants to introduce Sehat Card in Sindh but provincial govt doesn’t make its contribution
He said apart from implementation of the SOPs and guidelines, the government was actively pursuing vaccination campaign and by all standards Pakistan’s programme was one of the most organised and effective in the world. Within a year, he said, the country’s vaccination programme would achieve its major targets.
The minister criticised the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) government in Sindh for “destroying” the province despite enjoying power here for more than a decade.
He said the PTI’s federal government wanted to introduce Sehat Card in Sindh but it was the provincial government of the PPP which had not made its contribution to the crucial public health programme.
“During the last two years, some Rs1,600 billion came to Sindh but no one knows where the amount vanished,” Mr Chaudhry said. “Visit any Sindh district and city, you would only find ruins and devastation. I feel sorry to say that the Sindh government has not met its promises.”
Replying to a question about the recent deal between the government and the banned Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan, the minister rejected the impression that the writ of the state had been compromised and the government had surrendered to “the mob”.
“Unfortunately, the opposition is playing politics on this sensitive issue,” he said. “The government and state institutions displayed character and maturity to resolve the crisis. It’s visible from the attitude of the opposition, mainly the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, that they want to ignite hatred only for their political gains.”
The information minister assured the journalist fraternity of addressing their grievances and referred to a proposal from his ministry to facilitate them under the PM’s housing and health schemes.
Published in Dawn, April 25th, 2021
The warning came from a key member of the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf government and its spokesman who reiterated that Prime Minister Imran Khan had always resisted lockdown but he would not give priority to the economy over the people’s lives.
“Our government is trying its best to handle the coronavirus situation with the best available tools and options,” said federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Chaudhry Fawad Hussain at a press conference at the Governor House. “We make it possible to keep things going amid the pandemic because when it comes to strict measures, the daily wage earners and poor segments of society are hit hard. Secondly traders who make money most in this month [Ramazan]. So we appeal to the traders and the people to please take care and follow the guidelines. Ultimately if the people’s lives come under threat, we would have to go for drastic measures, including complete lockdown.”
He recalled the past stance of PM Khan who during the first wave of the pandemic had resisted imposition of lockdown and wanted to keep the economy open along with adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) defined by the health experts.
“PM Imran Khan has always resisted lockdown,” the minister said. “He always wants such a system that the economy keeps moving so at least the poor segments of society don’t come under pressure. But now we would wait for another week and if the situation doesn’t improve, definitely we would have to think about complete lockdown.”
Says federal govt wants to introduce Sehat Card in Sindh but provincial govt doesn’t make its contribution
He said apart from implementation of the SOPs and guidelines, the government was actively pursuing vaccination campaign and by all standards Pakistan’s programme was one of the most organised and effective in the world. Within a year, he said, the country’s vaccination programme would achieve its major targets.
The minister criticised the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) government in Sindh for “destroying” the province despite enjoying power here for more than a decade.
He said the PTI’s federal government wanted to introduce Sehat Card in Sindh but it was the provincial government of the PPP which had not made its contribution to the crucial public health programme.
“During the last two years, some Rs1,600 billion came to Sindh but no one knows where the amount vanished,” Mr Chaudhry said. “Visit any Sindh district and city, you would only find ruins and devastation. I feel sorry to say that the Sindh government has not met its promises.”
Replying to a question about the recent deal between the government and the banned Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan, the minister rejected the impression that the writ of the state had been compromised and the government had surrendered to “the mob”.
“Unfortunately, the opposition is playing politics on this sensitive issue,” he said. “The government and state institutions displayed character and maturity to resolve the crisis. It’s visible from the attitude of the opposition, mainly the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, that they want to ignite hatred only for their political gains.”
The information minister assured the journalist fraternity of addressing their grievances and referred to a proposal from his ministry to facilitate them under the PM’s housing and health schemes.
Published in Dawn, April 25th, 2021
OMB
First Class Captain
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- Dec 27, 2010
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- 4,288
Lockdown in Sindh: Govt closes all schools, colleges and universities amid COVID-19 surge
KARACHI: Sindh government spokesperson Murtaza Wahab announced that all schools, colleges and universities will remain closed in the province due to the rising coronavirus cases in the provinces.
Wahab tweeted that Sindh government offices will operate with an essential staff of 20% only as the country battles a dangerous third wave of coronavirus.
"All schools, colleges and universities shall also remain closed due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases," said Wahab.
The Sindh government spokesperson’s tweet came after CM Murad Ali Shah chaired a meeting of the provincial Task Force on Coronavirus.
The officials present in the meeting were briefed on the coronavirus situation in the province. They were told the province presently has 664 ICU bends with ventilators.
They were told that out of those right now 47 patients are on a ventilator. They were also told that oxygen plants are present at Dow University Ojha Campus, Trauma Centre and Gambat hospital.
Following the meeting, a spokesperson of CM Sindh announced that government offices will be closed in Sindh. He added that the secretaries have been ordered to summon their important staff only and rest should work from home.
He also confirmed about the closure of educational institutes as announced by Wahab.
The provincial government also announced that visits in the jails has also been banned due to the rising coronavirus cases.
The spokesperson of CM Murad also announced that inter-city transport will be banned in Sindh from Thursday, April 29.
Pakistan’s coronavirus tally crosses 800,000 mark
The decision by the provincial government came after 70 more people succumbed to coronavirus in Pakistan.
The new deaths took the nationwide COVID-19 death toll to 17,187, while over 4,800 new infections have been reported across the country, the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) data showed.
As per the official data, 50,161 tests were conducted in the last 24 hours, from which 4,825 tests returned positive.
The positivity rate of coronavirus in Pakistan stands at 9.61% as of today (Monday) whereas the number of active cases stands at 89,219.
The new cases have taken the national tally of positive cases to 800,452 with 285,542 reported in Punjab, 290,788 in Sindh, 114,077 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 72,613 in Islamabad, 21,743 in Balochistan, 16,591 in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and 5,258 in Gilgit Baltistan.
Highest single-day death toll
Pakistan on Saturday reported 157 deaths due to COVID-19, making it the country's highest single-day death toll since the coronavirus pandemic began last year.
Previously, the highest death toll reported by the country was 153 on June 20 last year.
Govt seeks army's help in implementation of COVID-19 SOPs
The Federal Ministry for Interior on Sunday had issued a notification stating that Punjab, Gilgit-Baltistan, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the Islamabad Capital Territory will (in accordance with their needs) seek the help of the Pakistan Army to strictly implement the coronavirus SOPs. The orders, however, do not apply to Sindh.
The Federal Minister for Interior Sheikh Rasheed had made the announcement and said that the decision to seek the assistance of the armed forces was taken during a meeting of the National Coordination Committee for Coronavirus on Friday, April 23, under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Imran Khan.
https://www.geo.tv/latest/347354-si...ges-universities-due-to-rising-covid-19-cases
KARACHI: Sindh government spokesperson Murtaza Wahab announced that all schools, colleges and universities will remain closed in the province due to the rising coronavirus cases in the provinces.
Wahab tweeted that Sindh government offices will operate with an essential staff of 20% only as the country battles a dangerous third wave of coronavirus.
"All schools, colleges and universities shall also remain closed due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases," said Wahab.
The Sindh government spokesperson’s tweet came after CM Murad Ali Shah chaired a meeting of the provincial Task Force on Coronavirus.
The officials present in the meeting were briefed on the coronavirus situation in the province. They were told the province presently has 664 ICU bends with ventilators.
They were told that out of those right now 47 patients are on a ventilator. They were also told that oxygen plants are present at Dow University Ojha Campus, Trauma Centre and Gambat hospital.
Following the meeting, a spokesperson of CM Sindh announced that government offices will be closed in Sindh. He added that the secretaries have been ordered to summon their important staff only and rest should work from home.
He also confirmed about the closure of educational institutes as announced by Wahab.
The provincial government also announced that visits in the jails has also been banned due to the rising coronavirus cases.
The spokesperson of CM Murad also announced that inter-city transport will be banned in Sindh from Thursday, April 29.
Pakistan’s coronavirus tally crosses 800,000 mark
The decision by the provincial government came after 70 more people succumbed to coronavirus in Pakistan.
The new deaths took the nationwide COVID-19 death toll to 17,187, while over 4,800 new infections have been reported across the country, the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) data showed.
As per the official data, 50,161 tests were conducted in the last 24 hours, from which 4,825 tests returned positive.
The positivity rate of coronavirus in Pakistan stands at 9.61% as of today (Monday) whereas the number of active cases stands at 89,219.
The new cases have taken the national tally of positive cases to 800,452 with 285,542 reported in Punjab, 290,788 in Sindh, 114,077 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 72,613 in Islamabad, 21,743 in Balochistan, 16,591 in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and 5,258 in Gilgit Baltistan.
Highest single-day death toll
Pakistan on Saturday reported 157 deaths due to COVID-19, making it the country's highest single-day death toll since the coronavirus pandemic began last year.
Previously, the highest death toll reported by the country was 153 on June 20 last year.
Govt seeks army's help in implementation of COVID-19 SOPs
The Federal Ministry for Interior on Sunday had issued a notification stating that Punjab, Gilgit-Baltistan, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the Islamabad Capital Territory will (in accordance with their needs) seek the help of the Pakistan Army to strictly implement the coronavirus SOPs. The orders, however, do not apply to Sindh.
The Federal Minister for Interior Sheikh Rasheed had made the announcement and said that the decision to seek the assistance of the armed forces was taken during a meeting of the National Coordination Committee for Coronavirus on Friday, April 23, under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Imran Khan.
https://www.geo.tv/latest/347354-si...ges-universities-due-to-rising-covid-19-cases
1) IT Workers
2) People in academia
3) Medical workers
4) People living off their family/personal funds
5) Govt workers
6) People who can work fully with a laptop (also known as the laptop class)
People in these categories tend to support lockdowns because not 1% of their income or salary gets affected with lockdowns
If they own Amazon/Netflix/Zoom shares they actually even benefit from lockdowns as it is a financial gain to them
For the rest of the people, lockdowns harm them.
If you had a system where 50% salary of govt and IT workers would be cut in lockdowns and given to those who lose their livelihood, they will stop supporting lockdowns from that point on
Bhaag Viru Bhaag
Senior Test Player
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- Aug 20, 2013
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- 29,494
Complete lockdown isn't a solution at all. They should shut all the weekly bazaars, sabzi mandis, open alternate shops in big markets and malls.
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- Oct 2, 2004
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- 217,977
The Sindh government on Monday imposed several restrictions to curb the spread of the coronavirus, including closing down all schools, colleges and educational institutions.
The decisions were taken during a meeting of the provincial Coronavirus Task Force, chaired by Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah. Provincial ministers Dr Azra Pechuho, Saeed Ghani and Nasir Shah also attended the meeting.
Decisions taken by Sindh govt:
All educational institutions to remain closed
Inter-city transport to close down from April 29
Markets to close at 6pm
No outdoor/indoor dining at restaurants; takeaway/delivery only
No visits in jails
Govt offices to function with essential staff
Taking to Twitter shortly after the meeting ended, Sindh government spokesperson Murtaza Wahab said that all government offices will operate with essential staff of 20 per cent, and inter-city public transport will be closed from April 29 (Thursday).
In a separate statement, the spokesperson for the Sindh chief minister said that all government offices in the province will remain closed. "Secretaries will call in their essential staff while the rest will work from home," he said.
During the meeting, it was decided that indoor and outdoor dining would be banned at restaurants and only takeaway/delivery will be permitted, a statement by the Chief Minister's Office said.
Shopping centres will close down at 6pm. "If cases continue to increase, then markets will be completely closed down," the chief minister remarked during the meeting.
No visits will be allowed in jails, the statement said, adding that hospitals will be exempt from all restrictions. Inter-city transport will be closed down from April 29, but goods transport and industries will remain open, the statement said.
During today's meeting, the health department informed the participants of the coronavirus situation in the province. The meeting was told that the province has a total of 664 ICU beds. "Currently, 453 beds with ventilators are unoccupied," the Sindh health minister informed the officials.
The meeting was also told that the Dow University of Health Sciences (Ojha campus), the Trauma Centre and Gambat Hospital have their own oxygen plants.
Later, Chief Minister Shah while addressing a news conference said Sindh's positivity rate was the lowest when compared with other provinces and its Covid-19 situation was better than other parts of the country.
He said Sindh had increased the capacity of its hospitals during the pandemic, noting that the province's ratio of recovered patients was 95pc.
Shah said Sindh's recovery rate was 10pc higher than other provinces, while its fatality rate was 1.65pc, compared with around 2.75pc of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
"Despite this, we are worried and we had informed this to [the federal government] in the April 23 National Coordination Committee meeting," he said, adding that Sindh at an earlier NCC meeting had proposed closing inter-provincial transport "but that was not accepted".
Shah said the Sindh government was worried because the province's number of Covid-19 patients had increased by three to four times in the past week, noting that it had gone up from 300-350 daily infections to around 900 currently. He added that Sindh's deaths, which had gone down to zero, had now started to rise again.
"Because of this, we decided that we have to take steps ourselves. We also said this in the NCC and they (the Centre) said that if we want to take additional steps we can," the chief minister said.
Govt opens vaccine registration for citizens aged 40 and above
Meanwhile, Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Asad Umar said that the government had decided to open up vaccine registration for citizens aged 40 and above from tomorrow (Tuesday).
In a tweet, he said that the decision was taken during today's National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) meeting. "Also decision taken to allow walk in vaccination of all registered citizens of 50 plus age group. If you are 40 years or older please register and encourage others to register."
The NCOC decisions comes the same day Pakistan's coronavirus cases crossed the 800,000 mark after the country recorded 4,825 new cases.
During the last 24 hours, 50,161 tests were conducted. The national positivity rate was recorded as 9.61 per cent.
The total number has risen to 800,452 while the death toll is 17,187. Punjab has the highest number of cases and deaths with 290,788 infections and 7,990 fatalities.
Provinces seek army’s assistance to enforce Covid SOPs
On Sunday, all provinces as well as Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) sought the services of the armed forces for enforcing standard operating procedures (SOPs).
After the four provinces and AJK, Gilgit-Baltistan and Islamabad sought the army’s assistance in implementing health guidelines, the interior ministry issued a notification, allowing them to avail the services of the forces.
The announcement came from Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed through a video statement, in which he said the federating units could take the services of the Pakistan Army as per their requirements.
The minister said Sindh’s request was not received, but later the provincial government also wrote a letter, requesting assistance from the armed forces.
DAWN
The decisions were taken during a meeting of the provincial Coronavirus Task Force, chaired by Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah. Provincial ministers Dr Azra Pechuho, Saeed Ghani and Nasir Shah also attended the meeting.
Decisions taken by Sindh govt:
All educational institutions to remain closed
Inter-city transport to close down from April 29
Markets to close at 6pm
No outdoor/indoor dining at restaurants; takeaway/delivery only
No visits in jails
Govt offices to function with essential staff
Taking to Twitter shortly after the meeting ended, Sindh government spokesperson Murtaza Wahab said that all government offices will operate with essential staff of 20 per cent, and inter-city public transport will be closed from April 29 (Thursday).
In a separate statement, the spokesperson for the Sindh chief minister said that all government offices in the province will remain closed. "Secretaries will call in their essential staff while the rest will work from home," he said.
During the meeting, it was decided that indoor and outdoor dining would be banned at restaurants and only takeaway/delivery will be permitted, a statement by the Chief Minister's Office said.
Shopping centres will close down at 6pm. "If cases continue to increase, then markets will be completely closed down," the chief minister remarked during the meeting.
No visits will be allowed in jails, the statement said, adding that hospitals will be exempt from all restrictions. Inter-city transport will be closed down from April 29, but goods transport and industries will remain open, the statement said.
During today's meeting, the health department informed the participants of the coronavirus situation in the province. The meeting was told that the province has a total of 664 ICU beds. "Currently, 453 beds with ventilators are unoccupied," the Sindh health minister informed the officials.
The meeting was also told that the Dow University of Health Sciences (Ojha campus), the Trauma Centre and Gambat Hospital have their own oxygen plants.
Later, Chief Minister Shah while addressing a news conference said Sindh's positivity rate was the lowest when compared with other provinces and its Covid-19 situation was better than other parts of the country.
He said Sindh had increased the capacity of its hospitals during the pandemic, noting that the province's ratio of recovered patients was 95pc.
Shah said Sindh's recovery rate was 10pc higher than other provinces, while its fatality rate was 1.65pc, compared with around 2.75pc of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
"Despite this, we are worried and we had informed this to [the federal government] in the April 23 National Coordination Committee meeting," he said, adding that Sindh at an earlier NCC meeting had proposed closing inter-provincial transport "but that was not accepted".
Shah said the Sindh government was worried because the province's number of Covid-19 patients had increased by three to four times in the past week, noting that it had gone up from 300-350 daily infections to around 900 currently. He added that Sindh's deaths, which had gone down to zero, had now started to rise again.
"Because of this, we decided that we have to take steps ourselves. We also said this in the NCC and they (the Centre) said that if we want to take additional steps we can," the chief minister said.
Govt opens vaccine registration for citizens aged 40 and above
Meanwhile, Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Asad Umar said that the government had decided to open up vaccine registration for citizens aged 40 and above from tomorrow (Tuesday).
In a tweet, he said that the decision was taken during today's National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) meeting. "Also decision taken to allow walk in vaccination of all registered citizens of 50 plus age group. If you are 40 years or older please register and encourage others to register."
The NCOC decisions comes the same day Pakistan's coronavirus cases crossed the 800,000 mark after the country recorded 4,825 new cases.
During the last 24 hours, 50,161 tests were conducted. The national positivity rate was recorded as 9.61 per cent.
The total number has risen to 800,452 while the death toll is 17,187. Punjab has the highest number of cases and deaths with 290,788 infections and 7,990 fatalities.
Provinces seek army’s assistance to enforce Covid SOPs
On Sunday, all provinces as well as Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) sought the services of the armed forces for enforcing standard operating procedures (SOPs).
After the four provinces and AJK, Gilgit-Baltistan and Islamabad sought the army’s assistance in implementing health guidelines, the interior ministry issued a notification, allowing them to avail the services of the forces.
The announcement came from Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed through a video statement, in which he said the federating units could take the services of the Pakistan Army as per their requirements.
The minister said Sindh’s request was not received, but later the provincial government also wrote a letter, requesting assistance from the armed forces.
DAWN
It took 3 months of lockdown and half the population vaccinated to bring down cases in the UK. Unfortunately 3 month lockdown is not a viable option in Pakistan and govt seems very slow of getting vaccines.
Only saving grace is the ‘allah ki marzi’ attitude of most people in Pakistan.
Only saving grace is the ‘allah ki marzi’ attitude of most people in Pakistan.
pakistani pride
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This!
Its more than a year and you cant lockdown poor people who need their daily wage to have food every evening. People advocating for lockdown sitting behind laptop have no idea.
Also i do wonder why such differences in some places. In Punjab for example (gujrat, kahrian, dinga, mandi etc there the impact of corona is minimum).
KingKhanWC
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Lockdowns only weaken peoples immune system, lose their incomes, mental health becomes worse and may die of hunger.
Pakistan should advise it's citizens on how to stay healthy by boosting their immune systems. Along with advising them not to have large gatherings.
The Kumbh Mela in India was a huge factor for their new serious deadly wave, Pak has no such gathering of such magnitude where people congregate from across the country.
Pakistan should advise it's citizens on how to stay healthy by boosting their immune systems. Along with advising them not to have large gatherings.
The Kumbh Mela in India was a huge factor for their new serious deadly wave, Pak has no such gathering of such magnitude where people congregate from across the country.
Oh they have full idea, most of them just don't care what happens to daily wage earners. Some do, and give increased charity during such times.
Ahmad-GERMANFC
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How do you boost immune system in short notice?
Also - you are forgetting Ramzan/Eid shopping. Last year Pakistan did great till the Eid shopping
Period and post eid we were in a terrible position for a month or so.
KingKhanWC
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You have to start sometime, covid isnt going anywhere I can assure you, new variants are/can be resistant to vaccines.
Exercise, eat healthy, stop smoking, Vitamin D, hygeine etc.
A family doesnt need to go out together, perhaps one member of the family or of a few households can go out shopping. Those shops who can, provide delivery services.
3rd world countries cannot have a full lockdown, as they cant afford to compensate people for not working.
pakistani pride
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Can you back up that claim with proof / data?
pakistani pride
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I guess it has to do with the fact that how many people have had covid cases close to them. Majority and the vast majority has not.
Giannis
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so everyone can die of starvation and homelessness instead
pakistani pride
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What kind of masks?
Duh!! How many types are there?
pakistani pride
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Are they effective?
Wearing masks will not stop the spread of a virus. In fact there are several studies it can make even things worse health wise.
Yesterday here in NL there was such a report about masks not being useful.
Yeah I have read these reports too. I only wear a mask when entering some place where it is mandatory. As I have previously said there is no point is social distancing if we are wearing a mask, it should be one or the other. If sportsmen are not required to wear masks then neither should the common person. Another thing that confuses me is handshakes are forbidden yet the fist punch seems acceptable, surely both are equally contagious
OMB
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OMB
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What do you want me to tell you?
You said "handshakes are forbidden yet the fist punch seems acceptable"
I just told you that that fists are also forbidden. if they do then they are wrong, isnt it?
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I am telling you that people should shake hands like they are doing that fist thing. If people are doing the fist punch despite it being disallowed then shaking hands is exactly the same. No one is gonna get charged for shaking hands if they are not for fist punches.
Ahmad-GERMANFC
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Covid situation in Pakistan is DIRE! Why are the governments and people not worried??
- highest number of deaths (>200 per day) today
- Low testing is keeping case load low but that is not a guide. Positivity rate climbing.
- Vaccination drive is terrible. Barely 1% of the population is vaccinated. Lower Vaccine purchase than any other country in the region. And well behind the region (Bangladesh, Sri Lanka etc)
- No social distancing in Ramadan and rallies.
- 90% of the hospital capacity is being utilized right now.
It’s waiting to explode. It’s already really bad and could get to India level soon.
- highest number of deaths (>200 per day) today
- Low testing is keeping case load low but that is not a guide. Positivity rate climbing.
- Vaccination drive is terrible. Barely 1% of the population is vaccinated. Lower Vaccine purchase than any other country in the region. And well behind the region (Bangladesh, Sri Lanka etc)
- No social distancing in Ramadan and rallies.
- 90% of the hospital capacity is being utilized right now.
It’s waiting to explode. It’s already really bad and could get to India level soon.
Ahmad-GERMANFC
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We are lucky that the Indian variant hasn’t reached Pakistan en-masse yet. If it was here then we would be gasping for breath too because with our current situation it would have spread like wildfire
Ahmad-GERMANFC
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Just look at the covid cases and death data from the 2 weeks post Eid Ul fitr last year
IAJ
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Is it true that testing costs Rupees 8000? I mean why isn’t this free, how will poor people afford this?
Just don't understand why people are not wearing the mask or observing social distancing. Instead they are boasting that we are Covid free as if it can't get to them. They continue to gather in places for iftaar and what not. A lockdown needs to be implemented as soon as possible. Precaution is better then cure.
WhenSultansBowled
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India have a better healthcare system than Pakistan.
If God forbid, things get to India level then it will be impossible for Pak healthcare system to handle the situation.
Good news is administration is trying to formulate some sort of plan, bad news is people are still hiding their heads in sand with "yahoodi saazish" (Jew conspiracy) mentality.
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The word on the grapevine is that the government is preparing to announce a hard lockdown in Lahore at the start of next week. It's probably unavoidable given the present state of affairs.
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LAHORE: PML-N's president Shahbaz Sharif on Thursday said the PTI-led government committed "criminal negligence" as it could not control the pandemic in the country, adding that had Prime Minister Imran Khan not wasted time espousing vain philosophies, the death toll would not have reached 200 in a day.
Shahbaz was speaking during a meeting with the parliamentary members of his party. During the meeting, party leaders and workers congratulated him on being released from jail. PML-N's parliamentary members and party's ticket holders from South Punjab also attended the meeting.
Speaking about the coronavirus situation in the country, Shahbaz stressed the government should expedite the vaccination drive on an emergency basis.
"Failure of the government to control the pandemic due to mismanagement has endangered the lives of people," Shahbaz said, adding that the system of governance [under the PTI] leadership has been "completely paralysed and suspended."
He said that the timely procurement and purchase of the coronavirus vaccine could have prevented the spread of the deadly virus.
Criticising the government further, Shahbaz said that due to mismanagement, the situation of hospitals is also become chaotic, while alternative arrangements are nowhere to be seen.
"The government is not taking steps according to the situation," Shahbaz said, adding that the conditions are getting worse yet the government is committing "criminal negligence."
He said that the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) could not predict the situation.
"Had Imran Niazi had not wasted time espousing vain philosophies, the death toll in the country would not have reached 200 in a day," Shahbaz said.
"While nothing happened to Imran Niazi, the masses are suffering."
Pakistan's coronavirus positivity ratio jumped to 9.6% on Thursday (April 29) after the country reported over 5,000 new infections in the last 24 hours.
According to the official data provided by the NCOC, 5,480 people tested positive for the coronavirus, after 57,013 tests were conducted across the country.
The total tally of COVID-19 cases now stands at 815,711, with most cases reported in Punjab.
The number of recoveries nationwide has reached 708,193 so far, while the number of active cases in the country stands at 89,838 as of today.
A day earlier, Pakistan reported the highest single-day death toll recorded since the pandemic started last year with over 200 new fatalities.
It should be recalled that last week, Shahbaz Sharif was released from jail after the Lahore High Court (LHC) issued the former Punjab chief minister's bail order.
His lawyer, Azam Nazeer Tarar, deposited surety bonds in the accountability court number 2.
Upon reviewing the bonds deposited by Sharif, the LHC issued his release orders after which the PML-N president was allowed to leave the prison.
The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had arrested Sharif in September 2020 after a bail plea he had filed was turned down and the interim bail was cancelled by the LHC.
The arrest was made in a money-laundering and assets beyond means case earlier filed by NAB.
GEO
Shahbaz was speaking during a meeting with the parliamentary members of his party. During the meeting, party leaders and workers congratulated him on being released from jail. PML-N's parliamentary members and party's ticket holders from South Punjab also attended the meeting.
Speaking about the coronavirus situation in the country, Shahbaz stressed the government should expedite the vaccination drive on an emergency basis.
"Failure of the government to control the pandemic due to mismanagement has endangered the lives of people," Shahbaz said, adding that the system of governance [under the PTI] leadership has been "completely paralysed and suspended."
He said that the timely procurement and purchase of the coronavirus vaccine could have prevented the spread of the deadly virus.
Criticising the government further, Shahbaz said that due to mismanagement, the situation of hospitals is also become chaotic, while alternative arrangements are nowhere to be seen.
"The government is not taking steps according to the situation," Shahbaz said, adding that the conditions are getting worse yet the government is committing "criminal negligence."
He said that the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) could not predict the situation.
"Had Imran Niazi had not wasted time espousing vain philosophies, the death toll in the country would not have reached 200 in a day," Shahbaz said.
"While nothing happened to Imran Niazi, the masses are suffering."
Pakistan's coronavirus positivity ratio jumped to 9.6% on Thursday (April 29) after the country reported over 5,000 new infections in the last 24 hours.
According to the official data provided by the NCOC, 5,480 people tested positive for the coronavirus, after 57,013 tests were conducted across the country.
The total tally of COVID-19 cases now stands at 815,711, with most cases reported in Punjab.
The number of recoveries nationwide has reached 708,193 so far, while the number of active cases in the country stands at 89,838 as of today.
A day earlier, Pakistan reported the highest single-day death toll recorded since the pandemic started last year with over 200 new fatalities.
It should be recalled that last week, Shahbaz Sharif was released from jail after the Lahore High Court (LHC) issued the former Punjab chief minister's bail order.
His lawyer, Azam Nazeer Tarar, deposited surety bonds in the accountability court number 2.
Upon reviewing the bonds deposited by Sharif, the LHC issued his release orders after which the PML-N president was allowed to leave the prison.
The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had arrested Sharif in September 2020 after a bail plea he had filed was turned down and the interim bail was cancelled by the LHC.
The arrest was made in a money-laundering and assets beyond means case earlier filed by NAB.
GEO
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ISLAMABAD: With no let-up in Covid-19 casualties and cases, the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) on Saturday decided to ban all processions in connection with Yaum-i-Ali. However, majalis have been allowed under strict standard operating procedures (SOPs).
The forum also suggested reducing domestic flights after earlier limiting international flights by 80 per cent.
On the other hand, as the Brazilian and South African variants continue to be reported in Pakistan, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Health Dr Faisal Sultan urged people to get themselves vaccinated at the earliest.
According to the NCOC data, 146 people succumbed to the virus while 4,696 got infected throughout the country in a single day.
An important session on Yaum-i-Ali was held at the NCOC, which was presided over by Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Asad Umar and co-chaired by National Coordinator Lt Gen Hamooduz Zaman Khan.
Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed, Minister for Religious Affairs Noorul Haq Qadri and SAPM Dr Faisal Sultan were also present. Provincial secretaries and representatives of law enforcement agencies attended the session through video link.
“Keeping in view the risk factor due to ongoing surge in Covid-19 cases across the country and particularly in major urban centres, it was decided to ban all sort of processions while holding of Majalis has been permitted under strict SOPs which are already in place for Ramazanul Mubarak,” a statement issued by the NCOC said.
The statement went on to say that the forum had emphasised the need to engage religious scholars and community leaders at provincial and district levels for implementing these decisions.
Meanwhile, in a video statement, Dr Faisal Sultan said all viruses evolved with the passage of time, resulting in the emergence of new strains.
“Some time ago a strain was reported in the United Kingdom and it was named B.117. It spread to a number of countries, including Pakistan. In the same way, a variant was reported in South Africa, called B.1.351, and another in Brazil named P.1. A number of other strains are also being reported in various countries. However, B.117 has a high transmissibility rate compared to other variants,” he said.
Responding to frequent queries about the effectiveness of vaccines against new strains, the special assistant said: “All vaccines available in Pakistan are effective and people should go for them to save themselves from hospitalisation.”
On the other hand, the Ministry of National Health Services (NHS) spokesperson, Sajid Shah, said his ministry and the NCOC were monitoring Covid-19 variants on a regular basis.
“As a result of this proactive effort, one sample of the SARS-COV-2, B.1.351, (South African variant) and another sample of SARS-COV-2 P.1 (Brazil) were detected in the National Institute of Health through genome sequencing. Authorities are actively engaged in tracing contacts of these positive cases,” he said.
The spokesperson further said: “Regardless of which variant has been detected, SOPs recommended globally continue to be our first line of defence against coronavirus. Please ensure that you wear a mask, practice social distancing and do not leave your home unnecessarily.”
He said everyone over the age of 40 should register and get inoculated as per government guidelines.
Meanwhile, the NCOC had announced that inbound air traffic would operate at 20pc of the total current quantum. All passengers were bound to provide negative Covid-19 PCR test result, which should not be more than 72 hours old.
According to the NHS ministry spokesperson, “rapid antigen tests will be held on arrival and negative cases will undergo a 10-day self quarantine at home. Positive cases will be shifted by district administrations to self-paid facility for 10-day quarantine and second PCR test will be conducted on the eight day of the quarantine.”
“In cases of positive results, the patient will undergo additional quarantine or hospitalisation as per the advice of the health authorities,” he added.
“All inbound travelers will be registered on Passtrack App before traveling to Pakistan, however, deportees will be exempted from registration,” he said, adding that the NCOC would review the advice on May 18.
The official said the forum had also proposed reducing domestic flights to limit chances of the virus from spreading.
The NCOC, meanwhile, reported 146 deaths and 4,696 new cases in a single day. As many as 671 ventilators were in use across the country while the number of active cases reached 90,553 on May 1. Overall 6,639 patients were admitted to hospitals.
Moderna vaccine for emergency use
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has listed Moderna Covid-19 vaccine (mRNA 1273) for emergency use, making it the fifth vaccine to receive emergency validation from the health body.
According to a statement, the WHO’s Emergency Use Listing (EUL) assesses the quality, safety and efficacy of Covid-19 vaccines, which is a prerequisite for Covax facility vaccine supply.
It also allows countries to expedite their own regulatory approval to import and administer the vaccines.
It is worth mentioning here that Covax has pledged free vaccine for 20pc of the population of Pakistan.
Published in Dawn, May 2nd, 2021
The forum also suggested reducing domestic flights after earlier limiting international flights by 80 per cent.
On the other hand, as the Brazilian and South African variants continue to be reported in Pakistan, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Health Dr Faisal Sultan urged people to get themselves vaccinated at the earliest.
According to the NCOC data, 146 people succumbed to the virus while 4,696 got infected throughout the country in a single day.
An important session on Yaum-i-Ali was held at the NCOC, which was presided over by Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Asad Umar and co-chaired by National Coordinator Lt Gen Hamooduz Zaman Khan.
Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed, Minister for Religious Affairs Noorul Haq Qadri and SAPM Dr Faisal Sultan were also present. Provincial secretaries and representatives of law enforcement agencies attended the session through video link.
“Keeping in view the risk factor due to ongoing surge in Covid-19 cases across the country and particularly in major urban centres, it was decided to ban all sort of processions while holding of Majalis has been permitted under strict SOPs which are already in place for Ramazanul Mubarak,” a statement issued by the NCOC said.
The statement went on to say that the forum had emphasised the need to engage religious scholars and community leaders at provincial and district levels for implementing these decisions.
Meanwhile, in a video statement, Dr Faisal Sultan said all viruses evolved with the passage of time, resulting in the emergence of new strains.
“Some time ago a strain was reported in the United Kingdom and it was named B.117. It spread to a number of countries, including Pakistan. In the same way, a variant was reported in South Africa, called B.1.351, and another in Brazil named P.1. A number of other strains are also being reported in various countries. However, B.117 has a high transmissibility rate compared to other variants,” he said.
Responding to frequent queries about the effectiveness of vaccines against new strains, the special assistant said: “All vaccines available in Pakistan are effective and people should go for them to save themselves from hospitalisation.”
On the other hand, the Ministry of National Health Services (NHS) spokesperson, Sajid Shah, said his ministry and the NCOC were monitoring Covid-19 variants on a regular basis.
“As a result of this proactive effort, one sample of the SARS-COV-2, B.1.351, (South African variant) and another sample of SARS-COV-2 P.1 (Brazil) were detected in the National Institute of Health through genome sequencing. Authorities are actively engaged in tracing contacts of these positive cases,” he said.
The spokesperson further said: “Regardless of which variant has been detected, SOPs recommended globally continue to be our first line of defence against coronavirus. Please ensure that you wear a mask, practice social distancing and do not leave your home unnecessarily.”
He said everyone over the age of 40 should register and get inoculated as per government guidelines.
Meanwhile, the NCOC had announced that inbound air traffic would operate at 20pc of the total current quantum. All passengers were bound to provide negative Covid-19 PCR test result, which should not be more than 72 hours old.
According to the NHS ministry spokesperson, “rapid antigen tests will be held on arrival and negative cases will undergo a 10-day self quarantine at home. Positive cases will be shifted by district administrations to self-paid facility for 10-day quarantine and second PCR test will be conducted on the eight day of the quarantine.”
“In cases of positive results, the patient will undergo additional quarantine or hospitalisation as per the advice of the health authorities,” he added.
“All inbound travelers will be registered on Passtrack App before traveling to Pakistan, however, deportees will be exempted from registration,” he said, adding that the NCOC would review the advice on May 18.
The official said the forum had also proposed reducing domestic flights to limit chances of the virus from spreading.
The NCOC, meanwhile, reported 146 deaths and 4,696 new cases in a single day. As many as 671 ventilators were in use across the country while the number of active cases reached 90,553 on May 1. Overall 6,639 patients were admitted to hospitals.
Moderna vaccine for emergency use
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has listed Moderna Covid-19 vaccine (mRNA 1273) for emergency use, making it the fifth vaccine to receive emergency validation from the health body.
According to a statement, the WHO’s Emergency Use Listing (EUL) assesses the quality, safety and efficacy of Covid-19 vaccines, which is a prerequisite for Covax facility vaccine supply.
It also allows countries to expedite their own regulatory approval to import and administer the vaccines.
It is worth mentioning here that Covax has pledged free vaccine for 20pc of the population of Pakistan.
Published in Dawn, May 2nd, 2021
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LAHORE: Businesses remain shuttered during the second day of the complete lockdown in the city on Sunday.
Chief Minister Usman Buzdar had, a day earlier, paid a visit to different areas in Lahore to witness the lockdown situation first-hand.
The Punjab chief minister had issued statements in which he warned of the rising coronavirus positivity ratios in other cities of Punjab.
"In Lahore, the coronavirus positivity ratio has ascended to a dangerous level," he had said. "We imposed a two-day lockdown (during the week) for the safety of the masses," added Buzdar.
He said coronavirus cases were on the rise in other cities of Punjab as well, urging people to stay at home to remain safe from the virus.
"The cabinet proposed the imposition of lockdown in Lahore and other cities (of Punjab) where the coronavirus positivity ratios are high," he said.
He said if the situation did not return to normal in other cities, the government would have no other choice but to impose a complete lockdown to save people's lives.
'Complete lockdown' to be imposed in Lahore on Saturdays and Sundays
Earlier, the Lahore commissioner had announced the city will undergo a complete lockdown on Saturdays and Sundays.
The announcement was made by the Commissioner Lahore Division Muhammad Usman on Friday, who had said that part of the complete lockdown entailed that businesses and markets across the city will remain closed.
The step is being taken to save lives as coronavirus cases continue to surge across the country and Punjab as well.
The commissioner had clarified that medical stores, petrol pumps and vaccination centres will remain open during the weekends.
"I would request citizens to buy items of necessary use today," he had said.
Punjab cabinet proposes lockdown before Eid
The 43rd cabinet meeting held under Chief Minister Usman Buzdar at his office on Thursday was briefed on the prevailing corona situation, Ramazan package and wheat procurement drive.
The cabinet had expressed its concern over the rising number of corona cases and death rate and showed its reservations over non-implementation of SOPs by the citizens. It decided to further strict restrictions in cities with a more positive ratio to save the lives of the citizens.
The provincial ministers had presented a consensus proposal to enforce a complete lockdown before Eid in Lahore and other cities that are reporting a high coronavirus positivity ratio.
The proposal of discontinuing the supply of oxygen to industries using the oxygen was also brought under consideration. The meeting had decided to increase the number of vaccination centres while the federal government will also be approached for the import of oxygen.
GEO
Chief Minister Usman Buzdar had, a day earlier, paid a visit to different areas in Lahore to witness the lockdown situation first-hand.
The Punjab chief minister had issued statements in which he warned of the rising coronavirus positivity ratios in other cities of Punjab.
"In Lahore, the coronavirus positivity ratio has ascended to a dangerous level," he had said. "We imposed a two-day lockdown (during the week) for the safety of the masses," added Buzdar.
He said coronavirus cases were on the rise in other cities of Punjab as well, urging people to stay at home to remain safe from the virus.
"The cabinet proposed the imposition of lockdown in Lahore and other cities (of Punjab) where the coronavirus positivity ratios are high," he said.
He said if the situation did not return to normal in other cities, the government would have no other choice but to impose a complete lockdown to save people's lives.
'Complete lockdown' to be imposed in Lahore on Saturdays and Sundays
Earlier, the Lahore commissioner had announced the city will undergo a complete lockdown on Saturdays and Sundays.
The announcement was made by the Commissioner Lahore Division Muhammad Usman on Friday, who had said that part of the complete lockdown entailed that businesses and markets across the city will remain closed.
The step is being taken to save lives as coronavirus cases continue to surge across the country and Punjab as well.
The commissioner had clarified that medical stores, petrol pumps and vaccination centres will remain open during the weekends.
"I would request citizens to buy items of necessary use today," he had said.
Punjab cabinet proposes lockdown before Eid
The 43rd cabinet meeting held under Chief Minister Usman Buzdar at his office on Thursday was briefed on the prevailing corona situation, Ramazan package and wheat procurement drive.
The cabinet had expressed its concern over the rising number of corona cases and death rate and showed its reservations over non-implementation of SOPs by the citizens. It decided to further strict restrictions in cities with a more positive ratio to save the lives of the citizens.
The provincial ministers had presented a consensus proposal to enforce a complete lockdown before Eid in Lahore and other cities that are reporting a high coronavirus positivity ratio.
The proposal of discontinuing the supply of oxygen to industries using the oxygen was also brought under consideration. The meeting had decided to increase the number of vaccination centres while the federal government will also be approached for the import of oxygen.
GEO
- Joined
- Oct 2, 2004
- Runs
- 217,977
The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) on Sunday reviewed border management protocols with neighbouring Afghanistan and Iran as new Covid-19 variants emerge in the region.
"The current policy of Land Border Management with Afghanistan and Iran has been reviewed to ensure regulated inbound pedestrian movement and effective management of COVID protocols at Border Terminals(BTS)," read the statement issued by National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC).
The revised policy will be effective from midnight May 4-5 till midnight May 19-20. The policy will only be applicable to inbound pedestrians with no effect on the existing cargo/trade (bilateral / Afghan Transit Trade) movement
According to the NCOC statement, border terminals (BTs) will remain open for seven days a week. "Employment strength of LEAs/health staff at BTs will be increased for implementation of testing protocols and to control high traffic density," read the statement.
The coronavirus monitoring body said inbound pedestrian movement would cease with effect from midnight May 4-5 with the exception of Pakistani nationals in Afghanistan and Iran who desire to return to their country and in extreme medical emergency cases etc.
It also said that all outbound pedestrian movement is permissible.
Highlighting the testing and quarantining protocols, NCOC said inbound pedestrians will undergo Rapid Antigen Test(RAT). Positive cases (for Pakistani nationals only) will be shifted to nearby quarantine facilities.
"Inbound pedestrian with Afghan exemptions will also undergo RAT testing at BTs. Positive cases, if any, will be reverted back to Afghanistan," read the NCOC statement.
It also said that thermal scanning for all drivers and co-drivers will be carried out on arrival at the BTs. Symptomatic cases will undergo RAT testing, positive cases will be dealt with as per the procedure spelled above.
"The current policy of Land Border Management with Afghanistan and Iran has been reviewed to ensure regulated inbound pedestrian movement and effective management of COVID protocols at Border Terminals(BTS)," read the statement issued by National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC).
The revised policy will be effective from midnight May 4-5 till midnight May 19-20. The policy will only be applicable to inbound pedestrians with no effect on the existing cargo/trade (bilateral / Afghan Transit Trade) movement
According to the NCOC statement, border terminals (BTs) will remain open for seven days a week. "Employment strength of LEAs/health staff at BTs will be increased for implementation of testing protocols and to control high traffic density," read the statement.
The coronavirus monitoring body said inbound pedestrian movement would cease with effect from midnight May 4-5 with the exception of Pakistani nationals in Afghanistan and Iran who desire to return to their country and in extreme medical emergency cases etc.
It also said that all outbound pedestrian movement is permissible.
Highlighting the testing and quarantining protocols, NCOC said inbound pedestrians will undergo Rapid Antigen Test(RAT). Positive cases (for Pakistani nationals only) will be shifted to nearby quarantine facilities.
"Inbound pedestrian with Afghan exemptions will also undergo RAT testing at BTs. Positive cases, if any, will be reverted back to Afghanistan," read the NCOC statement.
It also said that thermal scanning for all drivers and co-drivers will be carried out on arrival at the BTs. Symptomatic cases will undergo RAT testing, positive cases will be dealt with as per the procedure spelled above.
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- Oct 2, 2004
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Punjab, K-P, AJK impose lockdown during Eid holidays
Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces as well as Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) announced the imposition of lockdowns during the Eidul Fitr holidays in light of the decisions taken by the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) late last month.
The announcements come as the country crossed another milestone in the fight against coronavirus pandemic, administering Covid vaccine to more than 200,000 people in a single day amid the ongoing third wave of the pandemic, driven by the UK strain of the virus.
The third wave, which emerged in the first week of March, saw more than 5,000 new infections and over 100 fatalities every day for the past many weeks.
Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and AJK are the worst affected federating units of the country by the pandemic.
Sindh tightens Covid restrictions ahead of Eid
Amid rising coronavirus cases in the province and Eidul Fitr just round the corner, the Sindh government announced a new set of Covid-19 restrictions.
The decision to tighten pandemic-related restrictions was taken during a meeting of the coronavirus task force, presided over by Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah.
During the meeting, it was decided that restaurants will be allowed to offer take-away services till Maghrib prayers, after which only the home delivery service will be available.
The provincial government upheld its earlier restriction on commercial activities, stating that shopping centres are to open early in the morning and close by 6pm, the CM said.
In addition, Murad maintained that Hawkesbay and sea view areas will remain closed during Eid days.
The pharmacies are exempt from all conditions, the meeting notified.
Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces as well as Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) announced the imposition of lockdowns during the Eidul Fitr holidays in light of the decisions taken by the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) late last month.
The announcements come as the country crossed another milestone in the fight against coronavirus pandemic, administering Covid vaccine to more than 200,000 people in a single day amid the ongoing third wave of the pandemic, driven by the UK strain of the virus.
The third wave, which emerged in the first week of March, saw more than 5,000 new infections and over 100 fatalities every day for the past many weeks.
Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and AJK are the worst affected federating units of the country by the pandemic.
Sindh tightens Covid restrictions ahead of Eid
Amid rising coronavirus cases in the province and Eidul Fitr just round the corner, the Sindh government announced a new set of Covid-19 restrictions.
The decision to tighten pandemic-related restrictions was taken during a meeting of the coronavirus task force, presided over by Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah.
During the meeting, it was decided that restaurants will be allowed to offer take-away services till Maghrib prayers, after which only the home delivery service will be available.
The provincial government upheld its earlier restriction on commercial activities, stating that shopping centres are to open early in the morning and close by 6pm, the CM said.
In addition, Murad maintained that Hawkesbay and sea view areas will remain closed during Eid days.
The pharmacies are exempt from all conditions, the meeting notified.
Islamabad to undergo complete lockdown from 6pm tomorrow: deputy commissioner
The deputy commissioner of Islamabad on Thursday announced that a full lockdown would be imposed in the federal capital tomorrow (May 7) in a bid to curb the rising number of coronavirus infections.
Public transport will be suspended after 6pm on Friday, May 7, the deputy commissioner said, adding that all parks, recreational places, and commercial areas will also be closed after 6 pm.
The authorities will ensure that people follow the government's mandated "Stay Home, Stay Safe" policy, the deputy commissioner added.
A day prior, the government of Punjab had announced that it would impose a complete lockdown in the province from May 8 to May 16, owing to the increasing number of COVID-19 cases.
As reported by Geo News, the decision was taken during a meeting chaired by the provincial health minister Dr Yasmin Rashid. During the session, the government decided that all activities will be banned in the province on the designated dates, while public transport will be suspended and all recreational spots will also remain closed.
The provincial government said that checkpoints will be set up at all the entry and exit points of the city, where police, Rangers and army personnel will be deployed to monitor the situation.
"In order to control the coronavirus situation in the province, the next 20 days are crucial," Dr Rashid had said, adding that the government is employing efforts to curb the spread of the virus.
She stressed that owing to the third wave of the virus, people should celebrate Eid ul Fitr in a simple way, adding that people should follow the government's mandated coronavirus standard operating procedure (SOPs) and prove themselves to be responsible citizens.
At least 108 more succumbed to the coronavirus during the past 24 hours, taking the total death toll to 18,537 in Pakistan as the country grapples with the third wave of the coronavirus.
According to the official data provided by National Command Operation Centre (NCOC) on Thursday, 4,198 cases were reported when 46,467 tests were conducted across the country in the past 24 hours.
The positivity rate of coronavirus cases has been recorded at 9.03%.
The number of active cases stands at 84,172, with the nationwide recoveries rising to 743,124.
Moreover, about 5,624 coronavirus patients are admitted to 631 various hospitals with 651 patients on ventilators across the country.
Punjab remains the worst-hit province by the pandemic, both in terms of cases reported as well as deaths followed by Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan.
The highest death toll in the last 24 hours was in Punjab, with the province reporting 68 fatalities.
https://www.geo.tv/latest/349061-is...ockdown-from-6pm-tomorrow-deputy-commissioner
The deputy commissioner of Islamabad on Thursday announced that a full lockdown would be imposed in the federal capital tomorrow (May 7) in a bid to curb the rising number of coronavirus infections.
Public transport will be suspended after 6pm on Friday, May 7, the deputy commissioner said, adding that all parks, recreational places, and commercial areas will also be closed after 6 pm.
The authorities will ensure that people follow the government's mandated "Stay Home, Stay Safe" policy, the deputy commissioner added.
A day prior, the government of Punjab had announced that it would impose a complete lockdown in the province from May 8 to May 16, owing to the increasing number of COVID-19 cases.
As reported by Geo News, the decision was taken during a meeting chaired by the provincial health minister Dr Yasmin Rashid. During the session, the government decided that all activities will be banned in the province on the designated dates, while public transport will be suspended and all recreational spots will also remain closed.
The provincial government said that checkpoints will be set up at all the entry and exit points of the city, where police, Rangers and army personnel will be deployed to monitor the situation.
"In order to control the coronavirus situation in the province, the next 20 days are crucial," Dr Rashid had said, adding that the government is employing efforts to curb the spread of the virus.
She stressed that owing to the third wave of the virus, people should celebrate Eid ul Fitr in a simple way, adding that people should follow the government's mandated coronavirus standard operating procedure (SOPs) and prove themselves to be responsible citizens.
At least 108 more succumbed to the coronavirus during the past 24 hours, taking the total death toll to 18,537 in Pakistan as the country grapples with the third wave of the coronavirus.
According to the official data provided by National Command Operation Centre (NCOC) on Thursday, 4,198 cases were reported when 46,467 tests were conducted across the country in the past 24 hours.
The positivity rate of coronavirus cases has been recorded at 9.03%.
The number of active cases stands at 84,172, with the nationwide recoveries rising to 743,124.
Moreover, about 5,624 coronavirus patients are admitted to 631 various hospitals with 651 patients on ventilators across the country.
Punjab remains the worst-hit province by the pandemic, both in terms of cases reported as well as deaths followed by Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan.
The highest death toll in the last 24 hours was in Punjab, with the province reporting 68 fatalities.
https://www.geo.tv/latest/349061-is...ockdown-from-6pm-tomorrow-deputy-commissioner
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- Oct 2, 2004
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- 217,977
K-P to go into lockdown during Eid
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government has decided to implement the National Command and Operations Centre’s decision to lockdown the country from May 8-16 to ensure safety of the public from the prevailing third wave of coronavirus during the forthcoming Eid holidays.
Discussions pertaining to countering the third wave of coronavirus and the decision to implement a strict lockdown were reviewed in all respects.
It was decided to close all business activities except for general and medical stores, tandoor shops and a few other exceptions granted by the NCOC.
Public transport will remain open on Saturday and Sunday to facilitate those going back home on Eid whereas tourist destinations across the province were to remain completely closed during the lockdown.
The meeting was informed that those caught violating the lockdown will be sent back to their homes and a fine will be imposed on them.
However, cargo traffic and business shipments will remain open during the lockdown.
Standard operating procedures have also been issued for the last Friday of Ramazan and Eid prayer gatherings.
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government has decided to implement the National Command and Operations Centre’s decision to lockdown the country from May 8-16 to ensure safety of the public from the prevailing third wave of coronavirus during the forthcoming Eid holidays.
Discussions pertaining to countering the third wave of coronavirus and the decision to implement a strict lockdown were reviewed in all respects.
It was decided to close all business activities except for general and medical stores, tandoor shops and a few other exceptions granted by the NCOC.
Public transport will remain open on Saturday and Sunday to facilitate those going back home on Eid whereas tourist destinations across the province were to remain completely closed during the lockdown.
The meeting was informed that those caught violating the lockdown will be sent back to their homes and a fine will be imposed on them.
However, cargo traffic and business shipments will remain open during the lockdown.
Standard operating procedures have also been issued for the last Friday of Ramazan and Eid prayer gatherings.
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- Oct 2, 2004
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- 217,977
ISLAMABAD: The All Pakistan Traders Association on Friday evening announced it would continue to carry out all commercial activities starting tomorrow until chand raat — a day before Eid-ul-Fitr.
According to the All Pakistan Traders Association President Ajmal Baloch, as against the directives of the government, all markets and businesses will operate across the country, including Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir.
"We should be allowed to operate businesses 24 hours as the Saudi government did," said Baloch, adding if the government does not have the means to provide relief to the business community, then it should not tell trades to shut down their businesses.
A day ago, the deputy commissioner of Islamabad had announced that a full lockdown would be imposed in the federal capital from today (May 7) in a bid to curb the rising number of coronavirus infections.
Public transport will be suspended after 6pm, the deputy commissioner had said, adding that all parks, recreational places, and commercial areas will also be closed after 6 pm.
The authorities will ensure that people follow the government's mandated "Stay Home, Stay Safe" policy, the deputy commissioner added.
Akin to that, two days ago, the Punjab government had also announced that a full lockdown will be imposed across the province throughout the Eid holidays (May 8 to May 16) to curb the rising number of coronavirus infections.
The Sindh government also announced a new set of restrictions as part of the national “Stay Home- Stay Safe” drive to curb coronavirus during the Eid holidays.
In a notification issued by the Sindh Home Department, the provincial government stated that the new restrictions will remain in place from May 9 to 16.
According to a notification issued in this regard, all markets, businesses and shops will remain closed during the period except essential services. Special Eid bazaars / 'Chand-Raat Bazars' mehndi, jewellery/ornaments shops shall remain closed during the period being non-essential.
Pakistan reports 4,298 coronavirus cases in a day
Pakistan continues to report a large number of coronavirus cases across the country, with 4,298 people testing positive for the virus, with 140 people succumbing to the infection.
The country passed the grim milestone of 850,000 cases in total while the total death toll has climbed to 18,677.
The total number of recoveries reported across the country stands at 747,755 while the active number of cases has risen to 83,699.
Pakistan's coronavirus positivity ratio stands at 9.58%.
As Eid approaches, Dr Faisal Sultan warns Pakistanis of a 'very risky period'
Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health Dr Faisal Sultan on Thursday warned Pakistanis of a "very risky period ahead" as Ramadan comes to an end and the days of Eid-ul-Fitr holidays approach.
"We are today in the midst of the third wave of Covid-19 pandemic and while there may be very initial signs of some stability (in the third wave), these are very early days and this is a very risky period for us as the holy month of Ramazan is going to end and Eid is approaching," he said during a webinar.
He called on microbiologists and scientists to keep warning people about the dangers of the coronavirus and encourage them to keep following the standard operating procedures for safety against the infection.
The webinar, titled "SOPs and vaccination: Solution for the Covid-19 Pandemic," was attended by microbiologists, molecular biologists, medical professionals and students from Pakistan as well as abroad.
Speaking about Punjab, Dr Sultan said the curve is flattening in Punjab and the same was the case in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. However, he said coronavirus cases were on the rise in Sindh due to low compliance of SOPs by the masses, adding that now was not the time to get complacent as Pakistan still had more than 5,200 in critical care.
"Covid-19 cases may rise again if precautions are not taken during this critical period when we are seeing the last days of the holy month of Ramazan and Eid is a festive season," he said.
GEO
According to the All Pakistan Traders Association President Ajmal Baloch, as against the directives of the government, all markets and businesses will operate across the country, including Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir.
"We should be allowed to operate businesses 24 hours as the Saudi government did," said Baloch, adding if the government does not have the means to provide relief to the business community, then it should not tell trades to shut down their businesses.
A day ago, the deputy commissioner of Islamabad had announced that a full lockdown would be imposed in the federal capital from today (May 7) in a bid to curb the rising number of coronavirus infections.
Public transport will be suspended after 6pm, the deputy commissioner had said, adding that all parks, recreational places, and commercial areas will also be closed after 6 pm.
The authorities will ensure that people follow the government's mandated "Stay Home, Stay Safe" policy, the deputy commissioner added.
Akin to that, two days ago, the Punjab government had also announced that a full lockdown will be imposed across the province throughout the Eid holidays (May 8 to May 16) to curb the rising number of coronavirus infections.
The Sindh government also announced a new set of restrictions as part of the national “Stay Home- Stay Safe” drive to curb coronavirus during the Eid holidays.
In a notification issued by the Sindh Home Department, the provincial government stated that the new restrictions will remain in place from May 9 to 16.
According to a notification issued in this regard, all markets, businesses and shops will remain closed during the period except essential services. Special Eid bazaars / 'Chand-Raat Bazars' mehndi, jewellery/ornaments shops shall remain closed during the period being non-essential.
Pakistan reports 4,298 coronavirus cases in a day
Pakistan continues to report a large number of coronavirus cases across the country, with 4,298 people testing positive for the virus, with 140 people succumbing to the infection.
The country passed the grim milestone of 850,000 cases in total while the total death toll has climbed to 18,677.
The total number of recoveries reported across the country stands at 747,755 while the active number of cases has risen to 83,699.
Pakistan's coronavirus positivity ratio stands at 9.58%.
As Eid approaches, Dr Faisal Sultan warns Pakistanis of a 'very risky period'
Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health Dr Faisal Sultan on Thursday warned Pakistanis of a "very risky period ahead" as Ramadan comes to an end and the days of Eid-ul-Fitr holidays approach.
"We are today in the midst of the third wave of Covid-19 pandemic and while there may be very initial signs of some stability (in the third wave), these are very early days and this is a very risky period for us as the holy month of Ramazan is going to end and Eid is approaching," he said during a webinar.
He called on microbiologists and scientists to keep warning people about the dangers of the coronavirus and encourage them to keep following the standard operating procedures for safety against the infection.
The webinar, titled "SOPs and vaccination: Solution for the Covid-19 Pandemic," was attended by microbiologists, molecular biologists, medical professionals and students from Pakistan as well as abroad.
Speaking about Punjab, Dr Sultan said the curve is flattening in Punjab and the same was the case in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. However, he said coronavirus cases were on the rise in Sindh due to low compliance of SOPs by the masses, adding that now was not the time to get complacent as Pakistan still had more than 5,200 in critical care.
"Covid-19 cases may rise again if precautions are not taken during this critical period when we are seeing the last days of the holy month of Ramazan and Eid is a festive season," he said.
GEO
Covid: Pakistan enters partial lockdown as Eid nears
Pakistan has declared an eight-day partial lockdown ahead of the celebration of Eid al-Fitr next week.
Non-essential businesses and tourism sites must close and travel across the country is restricted from 8-16 May.
The country is currently battling a third wave of coronavirus infections, recording more than 140,000 cases and 3,000 deaths in April.
Officials had warned restrictions could be necessary given neighbouring India's devastating surge in cases.
Pakistan recorded an additional 4,109 positive cases on Saturday, according to the health ministry. The actual number of infections is likely to be higher because of under-reporting.
Under Pakistan's partial lockdown, all but essential shops, businesses and markets will close until 16 May.
Transport in and between regions and cities is restricted to private vehicles, taxis and trains, all with reduced capacity.
Officials are keenly aware that people could spread the virus as they gather to celebrate Eid with their families this week. On Friday Dr Faisal Sultan, who advises Prime Minister Imran Khan on health, said that the country was facing a "critical period" as the holy month of Ramadan draws to a close.
While he said there were "very initial signs of some stability" in cases, infections could again surge if measures were not taken now.
While local authorities have been imposing restrictions to try to contain the spread of the virus, Prime Minister Imran Khan has resisted another nationwide lockdown, saying last month he wanted to avoid such measures because of the harm it could cause to the economy.
But Pakistani officials are mindful of neighbouring India's ongoing battle with a deadly second wave.
Countries around the world are sending medicines, oxygen and ventilators by the planeload to try to ease the crisis gripping India's health system. The country has recorded hundreds of thousands of new cases each day for weeks, and infections are now spreading from cities to the countryside.
Asad Umar, Pakistan's federal minister for planning, posted a series of tweets on Saturday warning that "the entire region is exploding with cases & deaths".
"The need for caution is clear," he tweeted. "The danger is higher than ever and knocking at our doors."
Thousands of people would normally travel to Pakistan from all over the world for Eid, however travel restrictions are in place for many countries.
For those travelling to Pakistan from abroad, countries have been categorised into three tiers, from those deemed low risk and not requiring a Covid-19 test, to others restricted from entering Pakistan.
It is currently on the UK's red list, which means anyone travelling to Pakistan must pay to quarantine in a designated hotel upon returning to the UK.
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-57036022.amp
Pakistan has declared an eight-day partial lockdown ahead of the celebration of Eid al-Fitr next week.
Non-essential businesses and tourism sites must close and travel across the country is restricted from 8-16 May.
The country is currently battling a third wave of coronavirus infections, recording more than 140,000 cases and 3,000 deaths in April.
Officials had warned restrictions could be necessary given neighbouring India's devastating surge in cases.
Pakistan recorded an additional 4,109 positive cases on Saturday, according to the health ministry. The actual number of infections is likely to be higher because of under-reporting.
Under Pakistan's partial lockdown, all but essential shops, businesses and markets will close until 16 May.
Transport in and between regions and cities is restricted to private vehicles, taxis and trains, all with reduced capacity.
Officials are keenly aware that people could spread the virus as they gather to celebrate Eid with their families this week. On Friday Dr Faisal Sultan, who advises Prime Minister Imran Khan on health, said that the country was facing a "critical period" as the holy month of Ramadan draws to a close.
While he said there were "very initial signs of some stability" in cases, infections could again surge if measures were not taken now.
While local authorities have been imposing restrictions to try to contain the spread of the virus, Prime Minister Imran Khan has resisted another nationwide lockdown, saying last month he wanted to avoid such measures because of the harm it could cause to the economy.
But Pakistani officials are mindful of neighbouring India's ongoing battle with a deadly second wave.
Countries around the world are sending medicines, oxygen and ventilators by the planeload to try to ease the crisis gripping India's health system. The country has recorded hundreds of thousands of new cases each day for weeks, and infections are now spreading from cities to the countryside.
Asad Umar, Pakistan's federal minister for planning, posted a series of tweets on Saturday warning that "the entire region is exploding with cases & deaths".
"The need for caution is clear," he tweeted. "The danger is higher than ever and knocking at our doors."
Thousands of people would normally travel to Pakistan from all over the world for Eid, however travel restrictions are in place for many countries.
For those travelling to Pakistan from abroad, countries have been categorised into three tiers, from those deemed low risk and not requiring a Covid-19 test, to others restricted from entering Pakistan.
It is currently on the UK's red list, which means anyone travelling to Pakistan must pay to quarantine in a designated hotel upon returning to the UK.
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-57036022.amp
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- 36,230
- Post of the Week
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PM Imran Khan in Nathiagali to celebrate Eid amid ban on visiting tourist spots
ISLAMABAD: Amid the ban on visiting tourist spots due to coronavirus, Prime Minister Imran Khan is celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr with his family in the picturesque Nathiagali, according to Geo News sources.
The government has announced Eid-ul-Fitr holidays from May 10 to 15 during which a ban has also been imposed on tourism across the country.
According to the TV report, the premier had arrived in the town a day earlier and will spend Eid with his family.
As per details, the prime minister has no political activities scheduled during his stay there.
The NCOC had last month decided to ban tourism from May 8-16.
"Closure of tourist resorts, public parks, and hotels in/around tourist spots to remain closed," read an NCOC press statement.
The interior ministry, in a separate notification, had said all tourist resorts, public parks, hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, and transport will also remain closed for the public.
"Travel nodes leading to tourist spots [will also remain] closed; focus on [the areas of] Murree, Galiyat, Swat-Kalam, Sea View/beaches and the Northern Areas [will remain]," it added.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/834860-pm-imran-khan-celebrates-eid-in-nathiagali-with-family
ISLAMABAD: Amid the ban on visiting tourist spots due to coronavirus, Prime Minister Imran Khan is celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr with his family in the picturesque Nathiagali, according to Geo News sources.
The government has announced Eid-ul-Fitr holidays from May 10 to 15 during which a ban has also been imposed on tourism across the country.
According to the TV report, the premier had arrived in the town a day earlier and will spend Eid with his family.
As per details, the prime minister has no political activities scheduled during his stay there.
The NCOC had last month decided to ban tourism from May 8-16.
"Closure of tourist resorts, public parks, and hotels in/around tourist spots to remain closed," read an NCOC press statement.
The interior ministry, in a separate notification, had said all tourist resorts, public parks, hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, and transport will also remain closed for the public.
"Travel nodes leading to tourist spots [will also remain] closed; focus on [the areas of] Murree, Galiyat, Swat-Kalam, Sea View/beaches and the Northern Areas [will remain]," it added.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/834860-pm-imran-khan-celebrates-eid-in-nathiagali-with-family
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- Oct 2, 2004
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- 217,977
Including extended opening hours for shops, after a meeting on the coronavirus situation in the country.
During the meeting, the NCOC also reviewed and and "expressed satisfaction" on the implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) during the Eidul Fitr holidays.
The NCOC decided:
All inter-provincial, inter-city and intra-city public transport will resume from May 16 with 50 per cent occupancy.
Railways will maintain its operation with 70pc occupancy.
All markets and shops will remain open till 8pm from May 17.
Normal working hours for offices will resume from May 17 with 50pc staff working from home.
During the meeting, the NCOC also reviewed and and "expressed satisfaction" on the implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) during the Eidul Fitr holidays.
The NCOC decided:
All inter-provincial, inter-city and intra-city public transport will resume from May 16 with 50 per cent occupancy.
Railways will maintain its operation with 70pc occupancy.
All markets and shops will remain open till 8pm from May 17.
Normal working hours for offices will resume from May 17 with 50pc staff working from home.
And then we wonder why there are still problems in some of the Asian countries.
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- 15,745
CAA revokes private airline's flight permit over violations of coronavirus SOPs
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) revoked a private airline's flight permit flying from Dubai to Peshawar over violations of the government's mandated coronavirus protocols, Geo News reported on Monday.
Earlier, the private airline flight had flown 24 coronavirus positive cases from Dubai to Peshawar on May 10.
Despite warnings, 27 positive cases were brought to Peshawar from Sharjah again on May 16, the CAA spokesperson Saad bin Ayub said.
He said the airline is ignoring coronavirus standard operating procedures (SOPs) despite warnings.
Last week, Pakistan had allowed airlines to operate additional 30% of flights in a revised policy.
According to a notification issued in this regard, additional flights were allowed to ensure passengers were able to travel abroad without any hindrances, while only cargo flights of foreign airlines were allowed to return to Pakistan.
This is in addition to the 20% of flights that were already allowed by the CAA to operate in Pakistan, the notification stated.
As per the directives issued earlier by the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), the number of foreign flights operating to Pakistan was reduced to 20%, keeping in mind the prevalent coronavirus situation in the country and the region.
https://www.geo.tv/latest/350458-caa-revokes-private-airlines-permit-over-coronavirus-violations
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) revoked a private airline's flight permit flying from Dubai to Peshawar over violations of the government's mandated coronavirus protocols, Geo News reported on Monday.
Earlier, the private airline flight had flown 24 coronavirus positive cases from Dubai to Peshawar on May 10.
Despite warnings, 27 positive cases were brought to Peshawar from Sharjah again on May 16, the CAA spokesperson Saad bin Ayub said.
He said the airline is ignoring coronavirus standard operating procedures (SOPs) despite warnings.
Last week, Pakistan had allowed airlines to operate additional 30% of flights in a revised policy.
According to a notification issued in this regard, additional flights were allowed to ensure passengers were able to travel abroad without any hindrances, while only cargo flights of foreign airlines were allowed to return to Pakistan.
This is in addition to the 20% of flights that were already allowed by the CAA to operate in Pakistan, the notification stated.
As per the directives issued earlier by the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), the number of foreign flights operating to Pakistan was reduced to 20%, keeping in mind the prevalent coronavirus situation in the country and the region.
https://www.geo.tv/latest/350458-caa-revokes-private-airlines-permit-over-coronavirus-violations
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NCOC allows staggered reopening of educational institutes, outdoor dining from May 24
The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) on Wednesday announced the lifting of a number of restrictions imposed to control the spread of the coronavirus in the country, including the staggered reopening of educational institutions in districts where the positivity rate is less than five per cent and resumption of outdoor dining.
Earlier in the day, the NCOC reviewed the existing non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) in a meeting chaired by Minister for Planning and Development and NCOC head Asad Umar. The meeting was also attended by Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health (SAPM) Dr Faisal Sultan, Sindh Health Minister Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho as well as all the chief secretaries of all provinces, Islamabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan.
According to a press release issued after the meeting:
- Outdoor restaurants will be opened daily till 11:59pm while takeaway will be allowed 24/7 from May 24.
- Tourism sector will be reopened under strict Covid-19 protocols from May 24.
- Educational institutes in districts with less than five per cent positivity rate will be reopened from May 24.
- Outdoor marriage ceremonies will be allowed with a maximum of 150 people from June 1.
- Elective surgeries will be reopened from June 1.
- Educational institutes in all districts will be reopened in a staggered manner from June 7.
- All matric and intermediate exams will be held after June 20. All professional and non-professional exams will take place on a case-to-case basis as recommended by the Ministry of Education.
However, certain restrictions will remain in place. These are:
- All shrines, cinemas, amusement parks and indoor gyms will remain closed. Tracks for walking and jogging will be allowed to remain open with strict adherence to SOPs.
- Indoor dining will remain closed.
- All contact sports, festivals, cultural, musical and other events will be banned.
- All types of indoor and outdoor gatherings, including religious events will be banned.
- Inter-provincial public transport will remain suspended on the weekends from May 22.
- In its meeting, the NCOC also decided to reopen the Gadani and Misri Shah industries from May 20. The forum urged compliance on wearing masks and said broader lockdowns would be implemented with stringent enforcement protocols based on risk assessment.
Meanwhile, the current policies for inbound travel and Land Border Management would continue, the release stated.
The NCOC said a detailed review of the NPIs would be held on May 27 and June 7, adding that monitoring of disease prevalence and critical healthcare system was being carried out daily. "Necessary steps will be taken accordingly, whenever deemed appropriate to control the disease spread," the forum said.
Read more: https://www.dawn.com/news/1624532/n...ational-institutes-outdoor-dining-from-may-24
The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) on Wednesday announced the lifting of a number of restrictions imposed to control the spread of the coronavirus in the country, including the staggered reopening of educational institutions in districts where the positivity rate is less than five per cent and resumption of outdoor dining.
Earlier in the day, the NCOC reviewed the existing non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) in a meeting chaired by Minister for Planning and Development and NCOC head Asad Umar. The meeting was also attended by Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health (SAPM) Dr Faisal Sultan, Sindh Health Minister Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho as well as all the chief secretaries of all provinces, Islamabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan.
According to a press release issued after the meeting:
- Outdoor restaurants will be opened daily till 11:59pm while takeaway will be allowed 24/7 from May 24.
- Tourism sector will be reopened under strict Covid-19 protocols from May 24.
- Educational institutes in districts with less than five per cent positivity rate will be reopened from May 24.
- Outdoor marriage ceremonies will be allowed with a maximum of 150 people from June 1.
- Elective surgeries will be reopened from June 1.
- Educational institutes in all districts will be reopened in a staggered manner from June 7.
- All matric and intermediate exams will be held after June 20. All professional and non-professional exams will take place on a case-to-case basis as recommended by the Ministry of Education.
However, certain restrictions will remain in place. These are:
- All shrines, cinemas, amusement parks and indoor gyms will remain closed. Tracks for walking and jogging will be allowed to remain open with strict adherence to SOPs.
- Indoor dining will remain closed.
- All contact sports, festivals, cultural, musical and other events will be banned.
- All types of indoor and outdoor gatherings, including religious events will be banned.
- Inter-provincial public transport will remain suspended on the weekends from May 22.
- In its meeting, the NCOC also decided to reopen the Gadani and Misri Shah industries from May 20. The forum urged compliance on wearing masks and said broader lockdowns would be implemented with stringent enforcement protocols based on risk assessment.
Meanwhile, the current policies for inbound travel and Land Border Management would continue, the release stated.
The NCOC said a detailed review of the NPIs would be held on May 27 and June 7, adding that monitoring of disease prevalence and critical healthcare system was being carried out daily. "Necessary steps will be taken accordingly, whenever deemed appropriate to control the disease spread," the forum said.
Read more: https://www.dawn.com/news/1624532/n...ational-institutes-outdoor-dining-from-may-24
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KARACHI: Taking into consideration the worsening coronavirus situation, the Sindh government is mulling over options to impose strict a lockdown in the cities having a high positivity ratio including Karachi, sources told Geo News on Saturday.
The provincial government has sought input from the senior police officials in this regard amid a rise in virus cases across Sindh.
According to sources, the restrictions may initially be implemented in Karachi, which could be similar to last year's lockdown.
Meanwhile, police officials have demanded an additional budget from the authorities for the lockdown similar to last year.
Sources further said that so far 24 policemen have died due to coronavirus.
The Sindh government had announced Rs1 million assistance for those who succumbed to the virus. However, none of the victims received the allocated amount.
Sources further claimed that the decision to impose strict lockdown in the city could be taken today or tomorrow and its implementation is also possible soon.
Sindh decides to keep coronavirus restrictions in place
Previously, the Sindh government had decided to maintain the existing coronavirus restrictions across the province.
In the meeting of the provincial task force on coronavirus on Thursday, the Sindh CM said that on the day of Eid-ul-Fitr on May 13, there were 1,232 coronavirus cases in the province and after Eid on May 19, the cases were 2,076 cases, which is a 10.2% increase and shows that cases are increasing in Sindh. Karachi has reported 16.82% of these cases.
The members of the task force and experts at the meeting had advised the CM to continue with the existing coronavirus restrictions in the province.
On this, CM Shah had said that if the rate of cases decreased, the restrictions will be relaxed.
If the cases increase, we will impose stricter restrictions, but we are finding it difficult to relax the restrictions [currently] in the province, he said.
GEO
The provincial government has sought input from the senior police officials in this regard amid a rise in virus cases across Sindh.
According to sources, the restrictions may initially be implemented in Karachi, which could be similar to last year's lockdown.
Meanwhile, police officials have demanded an additional budget from the authorities for the lockdown similar to last year.
Sources further said that so far 24 policemen have died due to coronavirus.
The Sindh government had announced Rs1 million assistance for those who succumbed to the virus. However, none of the victims received the allocated amount.
Sources further claimed that the decision to impose strict lockdown in the city could be taken today or tomorrow and its implementation is also possible soon.
Sindh decides to keep coronavirus restrictions in place
Previously, the Sindh government had decided to maintain the existing coronavirus restrictions across the province.
In the meeting of the provincial task force on coronavirus on Thursday, the Sindh CM said that on the day of Eid-ul-Fitr on May 13, there were 1,232 coronavirus cases in the province and after Eid on May 19, the cases were 2,076 cases, which is a 10.2% increase and shows that cases are increasing in Sindh. Karachi has reported 16.82% of these cases.
The members of the task force and experts at the meeting had advised the CM to continue with the existing coronavirus restrictions in the province.
On this, CM Shah had said that if the rate of cases decreased, the restrictions will be relaxed.
If the cases increase, we will impose stricter restrictions, but we are finding it difficult to relax the restrictions [currently] in the province, he said.
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Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah announced on Sunday that restrictions were being tightened in the province in view of increasing coronavirus cases, adding that SOPs cannot be relaxed at the moment.
"We successfully overcame the first wave of the virus," Murad said while addressing a press conference along with medical experts and representatives of doctors' organisations.
"Covid-19 positivity ratio in Karachi is more than 13% as we deal with the third wave of coronavirus.This shows that the cases are on the rise since Eid, and we are finding it difficult to ease the restrictions in the province," the chief minister maintained.
Restrictions
Announcing measures taken by the provincial government, Murad informed that shops across the province would be open till 6 pm instead of 8 pm; only pharmacies would be allowed to remain open, except for those inside shopping malls.
The minister warned that action will be taken against shop owners in case of violation.
Indoor and outdoor dining will be completely closed, and only takeaways and home deliveries will be allowed. However, the chief minister warned that the permission must not be misused.
A ban on all kinds of events will remain in place, whereas recreational spots, parks and cinema halls will remain closed for the next two weeks.
The meeting further decided that Seaview, Hawkesbay, public parks, except walking tracks, will also remain closed.
As per the earlier decision, grocery stores will be allowed to operate till 6pm while public transports will run with 50 per cent passengers, with severe penalties for violations.
Regarding educational institutions, the task force stated that, "Schools will only be opened when the pandemic is under control".
CM Murad further directed the minister of education to make arrangements for the vaccination of teachers in educational institutions.
The provincial minister added that the coronavirus taskforce consists of representatives of various agencies. He stated that the taskforce has strongly urged the government to be careful.
"We have to be more strict, we cannot relax the SOPs. Restrictions are being stepped up in the face of growing coronavirus cases," Murad said.
On May 22, the Sindh government had decided to retain the current restrictions in the province, amid a surge in the Covid-19 cases, for another two weeks.
The decision was reached at a meeting of the coronavirus taskforce led my Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah.
Murad told the meeting that the highest number of 24,299 samples were tested in Sindh yesterday. As a result, 2136 new cases were reported.
At present the positivity ratio in Sindh is 8.8 per cent, the chief minister added.
"In Karachi, the ratio remained 13.97." Murad observed.
Provincial Health Minister Dr Azra Pechuho told the meeting that there were 1,232 cases on May 13, i.e. Eid, 2,076 cases on May 19 and 2,136 cases on May 21.
Express Tribune
"We successfully overcame the first wave of the virus," Murad said while addressing a press conference along with medical experts and representatives of doctors' organisations.
"Covid-19 positivity ratio in Karachi is more than 13% as we deal with the third wave of coronavirus.This shows that the cases are on the rise since Eid, and we are finding it difficult to ease the restrictions in the province," the chief minister maintained.
Restrictions
Announcing measures taken by the provincial government, Murad informed that shops across the province would be open till 6 pm instead of 8 pm; only pharmacies would be allowed to remain open, except for those inside shopping malls.
The minister warned that action will be taken against shop owners in case of violation.
Indoor and outdoor dining will be completely closed, and only takeaways and home deliveries will be allowed. However, the chief minister warned that the permission must not be misused.
A ban on all kinds of events will remain in place, whereas recreational spots, parks and cinema halls will remain closed for the next two weeks.
The meeting further decided that Seaview, Hawkesbay, public parks, except walking tracks, will also remain closed.
As per the earlier decision, grocery stores will be allowed to operate till 6pm while public transports will run with 50 per cent passengers, with severe penalties for violations.
Regarding educational institutions, the task force stated that, "Schools will only be opened when the pandemic is under control".
CM Murad further directed the minister of education to make arrangements for the vaccination of teachers in educational institutions.
The provincial minister added that the coronavirus taskforce consists of representatives of various agencies. He stated that the taskforce has strongly urged the government to be careful.
"We have to be more strict, we cannot relax the SOPs. Restrictions are being stepped up in the face of growing coronavirus cases," Murad said.
On May 22, the Sindh government had decided to retain the current restrictions in the province, amid a surge in the Covid-19 cases, for another two weeks.
The decision was reached at a meeting of the coronavirus taskforce led my Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah.
Murad told the meeting that the highest number of 24,299 samples were tested in Sindh yesterday. As a result, 2136 new cases were reported.
At present the positivity ratio in Sindh is 8.8 per cent, the chief minister added.
"In Karachi, the ratio remained 13.97." Murad observed.
Provincial Health Minister Dr Azra Pechuho told the meeting that there were 1,232 cases on May 13, i.e. Eid, 2,076 cases on May 19 and 2,136 cases on May 21.
Express Tribune
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The Sindh government on Monday took the decision to limit the movement of citizens in the province from May 25 in order to mitigate the recent uptick in Covid-19 cases in the province.
The new restrictions decided during a meeting of the coronavirus provincial task force chaired by CM Murad, will now limit unnecessary movement after 8pm. Only those individuals who have a valid reason to be out after 8 pm will be allowed to do so.
According to new restrictions people would not be allowed to roam unnecessarily after 8pm in Karachi.
Sindh Chief Minister Murad also directed the provincial inspector-general of the police to restrict unnecessary movement of vehicles, CM’s spokesperson Abdul Rashid Chana said.
However, if an individual has to go to a hospital or for other necessary work then they would be allowed to do so. Authorities have also decided to turn off lights in the parks of the city after sunset.
“If people cooperate, Covid-19 cases would reduce after two weeks and we can move towards lesser restrictions,” the spokesperson said quoting CM Murad added.
Business hours in the province will be from am to 6pm whereas bakeries and milk shops will be allowed to open till 12 midnight.
Departmental and superstores would be allowed to remain open till 6pm whereas businesses would remain closed on Fridays and Sundays. The chief minister further said that he would pay surprise visits to different areas and would take action if the SOPs were violated.
“If we fully comply with the two-week ban, it will be easier,” he reiterated.
Murad directed also the commissioner and deputy commissioners of Karachi to ensure full implementation of SOPs in the port city at all costs. Murad also said that of the total cases reported in the country, almost 50pc were from Sindh.
“I am getting most complaints SOP violation from district east and district central,” he added.
The forum was further informed that about 21pc of the cases tested in Karachi's district east were Covid-19 positive. District south had 16pc positive cases, central had 10pc while Hyderabad had 11pc, Dadu had 10pc, Sukkur 8pc positive cases.
The number of patients on ventilators in the city had increased to 71 during the last 24 hours and 90 patients were admitted to hospitals in Karachi
The chief minister also directed the provincial minister of industries to conduct mass vaccination in industrial areas.
“We have to save our people by vaccinating them,” CM Murad said.
The meeting was attended by Provincial Ministers, Dr Azra Fazal Pechoho, Saeed Ghani, Jam Ikramullah Dharijo, Chief Secretary, IG Police, Additional Chief Secretary Home, Commissioner Karachi, Additional IG Karachi, Principal Secretary, Provincial Secretaries, Finance, School Education and others.
The new restrictions decided during a meeting of the coronavirus provincial task force chaired by CM Murad, will now limit unnecessary movement after 8pm. Only those individuals who have a valid reason to be out after 8 pm will be allowed to do so.
According to new restrictions people would not be allowed to roam unnecessarily after 8pm in Karachi.
Sindh Chief Minister Murad also directed the provincial inspector-general of the police to restrict unnecessary movement of vehicles, CM’s spokesperson Abdul Rashid Chana said.
However, if an individual has to go to a hospital or for other necessary work then they would be allowed to do so. Authorities have also decided to turn off lights in the parks of the city after sunset.
“If people cooperate, Covid-19 cases would reduce after two weeks and we can move towards lesser restrictions,” the spokesperson said quoting CM Murad added.
Business hours in the province will be from am to 6pm whereas bakeries and milk shops will be allowed to open till 12 midnight.
Departmental and superstores would be allowed to remain open till 6pm whereas businesses would remain closed on Fridays and Sundays. The chief minister further said that he would pay surprise visits to different areas and would take action if the SOPs were violated.
“If we fully comply with the two-week ban, it will be easier,” he reiterated.
Murad directed also the commissioner and deputy commissioners of Karachi to ensure full implementation of SOPs in the port city at all costs. Murad also said that of the total cases reported in the country, almost 50pc were from Sindh.
“I am getting most complaints SOP violation from district east and district central,” he added.
The forum was further informed that about 21pc of the cases tested in Karachi's district east were Covid-19 positive. District south had 16pc positive cases, central had 10pc while Hyderabad had 11pc, Dadu had 10pc, Sukkur 8pc positive cases.
The number of patients on ventilators in the city had increased to 71 during the last 24 hours and 90 patients were admitted to hospitals in Karachi
The chief minister also directed the provincial minister of industries to conduct mass vaccination in industrial areas.
“We have to save our people by vaccinating them,” CM Murad said.
The meeting was attended by Provincial Ministers, Dr Azra Fazal Pechoho, Saeed Ghani, Jam Ikramullah Dharijo, Chief Secretary, IG Police, Additional Chief Secretary Home, Commissioner Karachi, Additional IG Karachi, Principal Secretary, Provincial Secretaries, Finance, School Education and others.
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The Sindh government on Tuesday imposed additional restrictions, including a ban on gatherings of more than 10 people, in view of the rising incidence of Covid-19 cases in the province.
A notification to this effect was issued by the provincial home department, a day after the provincial task force met to review the situation and discuss the possibility of introducing additional restrictions to stem the rising positivity rate of Covid-19 cases in the province, particularly in Karachi.
As per the the notification, dated May 25, the following restrictions will be applicable from today, in addition to the ones announced earlier:
All movement of vehicular traffic to be restricted after 8pm, with the exception of emergency vehicles and for deliveries.
Ban on all kinds of private parties, functions, weddings with more than 10 people in attendance.
No indoor and outdoor dining at restaurants; delivery and takeout can remain open till midnight.
All parks to remain closed, including walking and jogging tracks.
A day earlier, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah had lamented that 50 per cent of the active Covid-19 cases in the country were present in Sindh.
The chief minister had also ordered the deputy commissioner and senior superintendent of police to ensure implementation of the following restrictions placed by the government.
Business timings to be from 5am to 6pm, while bakeries and milk shops will be allowed to operate till midnight.
Pharmacies in shopping malls and super stores to close by 6pm
Public transport — intercity, intra-city and inter-provincial — will be allowed subject to 50pc occupancy and compliance with Covid SOPs.
All education institutions including schools, colleges and universities will remain closed for a further two weeks, till the situation improves or till further review by the provincial task force on Covid-19.
Fridays and Sundays will be observed as closed days by businesses across the province except Hyderabad where Fridays and Saturdays will be observed as closed days instead.
Sindh extends restrictions by two more weeks
Earlier on Saturday, the provincial task force had decided to continue with the ongoing restrictions for the next two weeks with strict SOPs across the province.
“The educational institutions in the province would be opened when the Covid-19 situation would improve,” the chief minister had said, and directed the education minister to take the necessary measures to vaccinate teachers at all educational institutions.
Saturday's decision had come after the Sindh government had decided on Thursday to continue with the existing restrictions due to the rise in the number of coronavirus cases witnessed after Eidul Fitr.
A notification to this effect was issued by the provincial home department, a day after the provincial task force met to review the situation and discuss the possibility of introducing additional restrictions to stem the rising positivity rate of Covid-19 cases in the province, particularly in Karachi.
As per the the notification, dated May 25, the following restrictions will be applicable from today, in addition to the ones announced earlier:
All movement of vehicular traffic to be restricted after 8pm, with the exception of emergency vehicles and for deliveries.
Ban on all kinds of private parties, functions, weddings with more than 10 people in attendance.
No indoor and outdoor dining at restaurants; delivery and takeout can remain open till midnight.
All parks to remain closed, including walking and jogging tracks.
A day earlier, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah had lamented that 50 per cent of the active Covid-19 cases in the country were present in Sindh.
The chief minister had also ordered the deputy commissioner and senior superintendent of police to ensure implementation of the following restrictions placed by the government.
Business timings to be from 5am to 6pm, while bakeries and milk shops will be allowed to operate till midnight.
Pharmacies in shopping malls and super stores to close by 6pm
Public transport — intercity, intra-city and inter-provincial — will be allowed subject to 50pc occupancy and compliance with Covid SOPs.
All education institutions including schools, colleges and universities will remain closed for a further two weeks, till the situation improves or till further review by the provincial task force on Covid-19.
Fridays and Sundays will be observed as closed days by businesses across the province except Hyderabad where Fridays and Saturdays will be observed as closed days instead.
Sindh extends restrictions by two more weeks
Earlier on Saturday, the provincial task force had decided to continue with the ongoing restrictions for the next two weeks with strict SOPs across the province.
“The educational institutions in the province would be opened when the Covid-19 situation would improve,” the chief minister had said, and directed the education minister to take the necessary measures to vaccinate teachers at all educational institutions.
Saturday's decision had come after the Sindh government had decided on Thursday to continue with the existing restrictions due to the rise in the number of coronavirus cases witnessed after Eidul Fitr.
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Sindh Education Minister Saeed Ghani said on Thursday that the provincial task force on Covid-19 had discussed easing coronavirus restrictions gradually, as the number daily cases of infections appears to be on the decline in the province.
Addressing traders at the Karachi Chambers of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Ghani said the provincial task force had hinted at curbing restrictions in its meeting today, adding that “we are moving towards reopening [of businesses] and consultations are underway in this regard.”
The minister said the restrictions would be lifted gradually and in phases.
“We realised that the lockdown and restrictions on businesses caused problems for the traders. It was an unpopular decision, and the PM was also against the lockdown initially, but this time he also supported it,” he said.
The provincial minister said it was also a fact that restrictions coupled with strictness had resulted in the downward trend of Covid-19 cases.
He assured that representatives of the business community, particularly those from the KCCI, would be invited to upcoming meetings of the provincial task force.
He said it was feared that Covid-19 cases would spike quickly after Eidul Fitr, hence the provincial had decided to extend the lockdown for 15 days to contain the impending spread of the disease.
He said, however, that this year Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab had reported more cases of Covid-19 than Sindh.
‘Situation is improving’
Speaking on the occasion, Sindh Industries and Commerce Minister Jam Ikramullah Dharejo said the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) and Sindh took decisions that were favourable to the public.
“The situation is improving… be patient, the changes will be visible in a day or two,” he told the traders.
Earlier, traders representing different market associations expressed displeasure over losses incurred to them during the lockdown. Mahmood Hamid of Liaquatabad Market said the police made the most of their magisterial powers during lockdown for their own mileage, thus making traders suffer.
He lamented that the Sindh government hadn't consulted traders in its decisions.
Earlier this week, Prime Minister Imran Khan had allowed the Sindh government to extend lockdown restrictions for another week to curb the spread of coronavirus in the province.
“Provinces are independent to take their own decisions regarding Covid-19 and Sindh can extend lockdown restrictions for another week if deems appropriate,” the prime minister said while chairing a meeting of the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC).
A source told Dawn that Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah had informed the prime minister that the provincial government wanted to extend lockdown restrictions for another week.
The Sindh government had on May 25 imposed additional restrictions, including a ban on gatherings of more than 10 people, in view of the rising incidence of Covid-19 cases.
A day earlier, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah had lamented that 50 per cent of the active Covid-19 cases in the country were present in Sindh.
The chief minister had also ordered the deputy commissioner and senior superintendent of police to ensure implementation of the following restrictions placed by the government.
DAWN
Addressing traders at the Karachi Chambers of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Ghani said the provincial task force had hinted at curbing restrictions in its meeting today, adding that “we are moving towards reopening [of businesses] and consultations are underway in this regard.”
The minister said the restrictions would be lifted gradually and in phases.
“We realised that the lockdown and restrictions on businesses caused problems for the traders. It was an unpopular decision, and the PM was also against the lockdown initially, but this time he also supported it,” he said.
The provincial minister said it was also a fact that restrictions coupled with strictness had resulted in the downward trend of Covid-19 cases.
He assured that representatives of the business community, particularly those from the KCCI, would be invited to upcoming meetings of the provincial task force.
He said it was feared that Covid-19 cases would spike quickly after Eidul Fitr, hence the provincial had decided to extend the lockdown for 15 days to contain the impending spread of the disease.
He said, however, that this year Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab had reported more cases of Covid-19 than Sindh.
‘Situation is improving’
Speaking on the occasion, Sindh Industries and Commerce Minister Jam Ikramullah Dharejo said the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) and Sindh took decisions that were favourable to the public.
“The situation is improving… be patient, the changes will be visible in a day or two,” he told the traders.
Earlier, traders representing different market associations expressed displeasure over losses incurred to them during the lockdown. Mahmood Hamid of Liaquatabad Market said the police made the most of their magisterial powers during lockdown for their own mileage, thus making traders suffer.
He lamented that the Sindh government hadn't consulted traders in its decisions.
Earlier this week, Prime Minister Imran Khan had allowed the Sindh government to extend lockdown restrictions for another week to curb the spread of coronavirus in the province.
“Provinces are independent to take their own decisions regarding Covid-19 and Sindh can extend lockdown restrictions for another week if deems appropriate,” the prime minister said while chairing a meeting of the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC).
A source told Dawn that Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah had informed the prime minister that the provincial government wanted to extend lockdown restrictions for another week.
The Sindh government had on May 25 imposed additional restrictions, including a ban on gatherings of more than 10 people, in view of the rising incidence of Covid-19 cases.
A day earlier, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah had lamented that 50 per cent of the active Covid-19 cases in the country were present in Sindh.
The chief minister had also ordered the deputy commissioner and senior superintendent of police to ensure implementation of the following restrictions placed by the government.
DAWN
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Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Health Dr Faisal Sultan has said that the average positivity ratio in the country had come down to 4 per cent due to effective curbs put in place by the government. However, he added that non-compliance of standard operating procedures (SOPs) had also increased, which he feared could lead to another wave of the pandemic.
In a video message, he said that the compliance rate had come down to 46 per cent which was at 75 to 80 per cent a few weeks ago. "We also monitor this (compliance of SOPs) but unfortunately we fall behind in this aspect which is a concern for the government," he added.
Dr Faisal Sultan feared that if the trend of non-compliance continued, the number of Covid-19 cases could start to rise again. "If we don't get serious about it now then we might have to face another wave [of Covid]," he added.
Sharing some statistics in this regard, he said that only 40% were following the guidelines in the business and transportation sector, meaning around 60% were not adhering to the SOPs.
The PM's aide on health further said that in the industrial sector the compliance rate is only 38%, in mosques and Imambargahs 41% and in other public places it hovers around 40 to 42%. "In hospitals, it is 70% but there it should be no less than 100%," he stressed.
In a video message, he said that the compliance rate had come down to 46 per cent which was at 75 to 80 per cent a few weeks ago. "We also monitor this (compliance of SOPs) but unfortunately we fall behind in this aspect which is a concern for the government," he added.
Dr Faisal Sultan feared that if the trend of non-compliance continued, the number of Covid-19 cases could start to rise again. "If we don't get serious about it now then we might have to face another wave [of Covid]," he added.
Sharing some statistics in this regard, he said that only 40% were following the guidelines in the business and transportation sector, meaning around 60% were not adhering to the SOPs.
The PM's aide on health further said that in the industrial sector the compliance rate is only 38%, in mosques and Imambargahs 41% and in other public places it hovers around 40 to 42%. "In hospitals, it is 70% but there it should be no less than 100%," he stressed.
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Coronavirus: Sindh govt announces end to two-day business shutdown
Sindh CM Murad Ali Shah chairs provincial coronavirus task force meeting to review latest situation of pandemic.
After meeting, Sindh government announces closure of business will now only be on Sunday.
CM says coronavirus jab should be made mandatory to get a driving license.
KARACHI: The Sindh government has announced that businesses will now only be closed for one day - Sundays.
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah chaired a meeting of the provincial task force on coronavirus on Monday, in which it was decided to close the business activity for one day instead of two days a week.
Taking notice of the news of issuance of certificate without getting vaccinated at the Expo Center, the Sindh Chief Minister directed the inspector-general and home department to take stern action against the persons concerned.
The Sindh CM said that he will not tolerate corruption or incompetence in any ongoing work against coronavirus.
He said that having a coronavirus jab should be made mandatory to get a driving license.
In the meeting, the CM that the rate of COVID-19 patients in Sindh has come down to 4.5% and some pressure on hospitals has eased now.
On June 12, 37,105 tests were conducted at the airport for those coming from abroad, out of which 80 people tested positive for coronavirus.
He shared more facts and figures, saying that so far 50 of the passengers from abroad have recovered. A total of 9.5% of the new cases were diagnosed in Karachi, 5.65% in Hyderabad, 12% in District East of Karachi and 9% in District South.
So far, 192 patients have died in June for COVID-19.
https://www.geo.tv/latest/354998-businesses-to-now-only-stay-closed-sundays-announces-sindh-government
Sindh CM Murad Ali Shah chairs provincial coronavirus task force meeting to review latest situation of pandemic.
After meeting, Sindh government announces closure of business will now only be on Sunday.
CM says coronavirus jab should be made mandatory to get a driving license.
KARACHI: The Sindh government has announced that businesses will now only be closed for one day - Sundays.
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah chaired a meeting of the provincial task force on coronavirus on Monday, in which it was decided to close the business activity for one day instead of two days a week.
Taking notice of the news of issuance of certificate without getting vaccinated at the Expo Center, the Sindh Chief Minister directed the inspector-general and home department to take stern action against the persons concerned.
The Sindh CM said that he will not tolerate corruption or incompetence in any ongoing work against coronavirus.
He said that having a coronavirus jab should be made mandatory to get a driving license.
In the meeting, the CM that the rate of COVID-19 patients in Sindh has come down to 4.5% and some pressure on hospitals has eased now.
On June 12, 37,105 tests were conducted at the airport for those coming from abroad, out of which 80 people tested positive for coronavirus.
He shared more facts and figures, saying that so far 50 of the passengers from abroad have recovered. A total of 9.5% of the new cases were diagnosed in Karachi, 5.65% in Hyderabad, 12% in District East of Karachi and 9% in District South.
So far, 192 patients have died in June for COVID-19.
https://www.geo.tv/latest/354998-businesses-to-now-only-stay-closed-sundays-announces-sindh-government
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KARACHI: A decision on whether a two-week lockdown will be imposed in Karachi or not will be taken today during the provincial task force on coronavirus meeting at CM House on Friday.
Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah will chair the meeting, with provincial ministers and healthcare experts in attendance.
For the first time, parliamentary leaders of political parties have also been invited to the meeting, sources said.
The Sindh health department has recommended clamping a two-week complete lockdown to contain the spread of the pandemic in Karachi as the positivity rate has gone beyond an alarming 30 per cent in the megacity.
Given the unsettling circumstances of the COVID-19 re-surge in Karachi, the task force has received a strong proposal to impose a complete lockdown in the metropolis.
Read also: Karachi’s coronavirus positivity rate surges to over 30%
Medical experts and the health department suggested halting inter-city and intra-city commute for two weeks.
Educational institutions have also been proposed to be closed for two weeks, sources said.
GEO
Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah will chair the meeting, with provincial ministers and healthcare experts in attendance.
For the first time, parliamentary leaders of political parties have also been invited to the meeting, sources said.
The Sindh health department has recommended clamping a two-week complete lockdown to contain the spread of the pandemic in Karachi as the positivity rate has gone beyond an alarming 30 per cent in the megacity.
Given the unsettling circumstances of the COVID-19 re-surge in Karachi, the task force has received a strong proposal to impose a complete lockdown in the metropolis.
Read also: Karachi’s coronavirus positivity rate surges to over 30%
Medical experts and the health department suggested halting inter-city and intra-city commute for two weeks.
Educational institutions have also been proposed to be closed for two weeks, sources said.
GEO
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KARACHI: The Sindh government has decided to impose an immediate lockdown till August 8 as the province continues to battle the dangerous surge in COVID-19 infections, Geo News reported Friday.
It goes into effect tomorrow (Saturday).
This was decided in a meeting chaired by Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah of the coronavirus task force which was attended by provincial ministers, medical experts and representatives of the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) on Friday.
For the first time, parliamentary leaders of political parties were also invited to the COVID-19 task force meeting. Besides this, the Sindh Ranger DG was also invited.
Read more: Why does Karachi desperately need a coronavirus lockdown?
The Sindh health department had proposed a two-week lockdown to the task force, while medical experts had proposed a two-week ban on inter-city transport. A proposal was also made to close all educational institutions and educational activities for two weeks.
The National Command and Operation Centre had opposed the idea of a complete lockdown in Karachi and the head of the NCOC, Asad Umar, said that closing the entire city for weeks is not a cure.
The Sindh government, however, had said that it does not care what the federation says and that the only immediate solution to bring down virus cases was a lockdown.
Key decisions in the Sindh coronavirus task force meeting
The lockdown goes into effect from tomorrow. Here are some of the key decision that were made:
Government offices will be closed from next week.
Those who do not get vaccinated will not get their salary after August 31.
Vaccination cards of anyone roaming the streets will be checked.
The Export industry will remain open.
All markets in the province will remain closed, but pharmacies will stay open.
Inter-city transport will be closed
GEO
It goes into effect tomorrow (Saturday).
This was decided in a meeting chaired by Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah of the coronavirus task force which was attended by provincial ministers, medical experts and representatives of the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) on Friday.
For the first time, parliamentary leaders of political parties were also invited to the COVID-19 task force meeting. Besides this, the Sindh Ranger DG was also invited.
Read more: Why does Karachi desperately need a coronavirus lockdown?
The Sindh health department had proposed a two-week lockdown to the task force, while medical experts had proposed a two-week ban on inter-city transport. A proposal was also made to close all educational institutions and educational activities for two weeks.
The National Command and Operation Centre had opposed the idea of a complete lockdown in Karachi and the head of the NCOC, Asad Umar, said that closing the entire city for weeks is not a cure.
The Sindh government, however, had said that it does not care what the federation says and that the only immediate solution to bring down virus cases was a lockdown.
Key decisions in the Sindh coronavirus task force meeting
The lockdown goes into effect from tomorrow. Here are some of the key decision that were made:
Government offices will be closed from next week.
Those who do not get vaccinated will not get their salary after August 31.
Vaccination cards of anyone roaming the streets will be checked.
The Export industry will remain open.
All markets in the province will remain closed, but pharmacies will stay open.
Inter-city transport will be closed
GEO
Deewana Mastana
T20I Captain
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No surprise that Pakistan is still reeling badly with Covid-19 as people aren't getting vaccinated and they do not want to get vaccinated and also not having enough supplies/doses for the population which makes it harder to contain this. Also to be known is the fact that it could take upto 10 years or even longer to get their entire population vaccinated while the other countries will be having multiple boosters by then.
People are not wearing masks or doing social distancing either as people on TV shows continue to be seated right next to each other and not even shown using hand sanitizers to make the public aware that they should be doing these regardless of if they have been vaccinated.
If the bigger cities are going into lockdowns then imagine how this must be ripping through villages where there are millions of people who have not even worn masks or done anything this whole time.
People are not wearing masks or doing social distancing either as people on TV shows continue to be seated right next to each other and not even shown using hand sanitizers to make the public aware that they should be doing these regardless of if they have been vaccinated.
If the bigger cities are going into lockdowns then imagine how this must be ripping through villages where there are millions of people who have not even worn masks or done anything this whole time.
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