Admin, police told to ensure SOPs compliance

CM Buzdar says implementation of precautionary measures necessary to curb contagion

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Sardar Usman Buzdar has directed the local administrations and the police department to ensure strict implementation of coronavirus standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Speaking to the media on Wednesday, the chief minister said that 100% compliance of coronavirus SOPs was necessary to curb the contagion. “All commercial areas and business houses will have to follow governmental instructions for safety.” He reiterated that legal action will be initiated in case of any violation and implementation of governmental measures will be ensured. He emphasised that no one will be allowed to take any unlawful benefit of easing of lockdown. Everyone will have to show responsibility, he added.

He pointed out that all decisions were being made in consultation with stakeholders and under the guidance of the federal government. “The people should follow governmental instructions in letter and spirit because it is in their own interest, adding that continuation of employment generation activities was imperative along with observation of SOPs. “The people can protect themselves by maintaining physical distancing and following the policy of care.

Meanwhile, Punjab Senior Minister Abdul Aleem Khan said that the increasing number of coronavirus patients in Punjab, especially in Lahore, was a serious issue, adding that the government as well as the citizens must show responsibility and adhere to the government announced safety procedures to curb the infectious disease.

He was presiding over a high-level meeting of the Punjab Cabinet Committee on Coronavirus at the CM’s house. Punjab Health Minister Dr Yasmeen Rashid, Industry Minister Mian Aslam Iqbal, Punjab Chief Secretary Jawwad Rafique Malik and two health secretaries besides officers concerned attended the meeting.

He further said that there was a need to keep the citizens informed about the security measures, and for this purpose, proper advertisement of SOPs through print and electronic media should be carried out. “Strict checking of areas had to be ensured and a special plan had to be prepared especially for Lahore,” the senior minister stressed.

He maintained that there was no doubt that the burden of handling a large number of coronavirus patients in government hospitals was very high for which the health department should also increase the facilities for coronavirus patients in Sheikh Zayed Hospital.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 11^th, 2020.