It is essential that the protocols announced by the government are adhered to in letter and spirit
ISLAMABAD: The government of Pakistan has eased lockdown restrictions, primarily with a view to providing some relief, ahead of Eidul Fitr, to a vast segment of our population that depends upon daily labour. The ease in the restrictions will allow essential institutions and businesses to start functioning, thereby helping the economy get back on track.
However, the insensitive attitude of the public has become a cause for concern as with the lockdown restrictions easing, thousands of people are flocking to marketplaces while completely ignoring social distancing protocols. Citizens and shopkeepers are blatantly disregarding SOPs as no precautionary measures are being adopted in most of the shops and markets across the country. Just a few days ago, the police were seen chasing down traders for violating safety protocols in Lahore’s Anarkali market — and this caused great tension between the two sides. Many believe that apart from the carefree attitude of the people, the confusion created due to the contradictory statements from the federal government and the provincial government of Sindh about the lockdown is also to blame for the violations of SOPs.
However, one can very easily use common sense to clear the air. Regardless of whether shops are open or businesses are operational, people need to strictly follow social distancing protocols at all costs. The government has time and again made it clear that the virus spreads mostly through human interaction. It is essential that the protocols announced by the government are adhered to in letter and spirit, otherwise the rate of the coronavirus infection could intensify rapidly, forcing the situation to spiral out of control.
Iftikhar Mirza
Published in The Express Tribune, May 17th, 2020.
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