With limited resources, fight is on: CM Kamal

Refutes impression that coronavirus spread because of pilgrims

QUETTA: Chief Minister (CM) Balochistan Jam Kamal Khan on Sunday stated that it is imperative for everyone to take precautions to deal with the coronavirus and efforts are underway to prevent this strain of the virus from spreading further.

“This virus is a major disaster. If a catastrophic disaster spreads, it will be out of control of our health sector,” he said while talking to reporters during a visit to a quarantine centre in Dera Allahyar. “We lack health resources but still efforts are underway to prevent the outbreak as we utilise available resources.”

The provincial chief executive added that a false impression has been created that coronavirus was spread by Iran-returned pilgrims. “In the last 20 days, around 0.9 million people have visited Pakistan from overseas. These people have come from countries where more cases of coronavirus have been reported. All those coming from overseas should have been screened,” he said.

CM Kamal also said a partial lock-down in Quetta was initially decided and the government will ensure that the public complies with the orders. He termed the impression of keeping pilgrims coming from Iran to the Quarantine Center in Dera Allahyar false.

The chief minister went on to add that pilgrims from Jaffarabad and Sohbatpur districts will be cautiously kept for 14 days in the quarantine center of Dera Allahyar and the cases that were diagnosed positive will be transferred to Sheikh Zayed Hospital of Quetta. “In case of a lock-down, daily wagers will be given a ration package for at least two months after completing the registration process within ten days.”

CM Kamal relayed that after the Quarantine Centre becomes functional, the health department will provide a test kit, 95 masks, gowns and other vital equipment in the next few days. “As coronavirus is spreading rapidly in Italy by a minor mistake, it is better to take precautions than suffering afterwards. It is important that government orders are followed strictly otherwise stern action will be taken.”

On the occasion, Commissioner Naseerabad Abid Saleem Qureshi gave the CM a detailed briefing. Provincial Minister Muhammad Khan Lehri and MPA Sikandar Khan Umrani also accompanied the chief minister on this trip. They were received by MPA Jan Mohammad Jamali and former minister Mir Faiq Ali Jamali.

On Saturday, the chief minister visited Rural Development Academy and reviewed the quarantine center established in the city. “Pilgrims should be allowed to go home immediately and be advised to stay in their homes for a further 14 days,” he directed. He also reviewed the residential facilities.

CM Kamal directed that containers shall immediately be dispatched for the quarantine center of Mian Ghundi.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 23^rd, 2020.