Karachi Company among three areas to be sealed

Administration says the areas will be sealed on June 13

ISLAMABAD: As the number of novel coronavirus (Covid-19) cases soared past 6,236 in the federal capital with 62 associated deaths, the district administration has decided to seal another three areas of the city, including the major commercial centre Karachi Company.

Unlike in the past, the notification issued by the deputy commissioner on Thursday gave residents 36 hours notice for sealing the localities.

Islamabad Capital Territory Administration (ICTA) Deputy Commissioner Hamza Shafqaat issued a notification on Thursday stating that sectors G-9/2 and G-9/3, as well as Karachi Company, will be sealed off on June 13.

DC added that the decision has been taken in the public interest to prevent the virus from spreading further in the community.

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The circular stated that all shops, including pharmacies and those selling essential items, will remain open in the sealed sectors. However, any unnecessary movement of locals will be barred. During the curfew-like lockdown, mosques and imambargahs in the sealed areas will also be closed.

Residents of the related areas have been directed to make prior arrangements, for their convenience, including obtaining rations, medicines, and other essential commodities. The ICTA has also asked the residents of the to-be-sealed areas to reschedule their engagements before the onset of the lockdown.

On the due date, the Islamabad Police, paramilitary Rangers and army personnel will be deployed at the entry and exit points of the areas. The DC has also directed the Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) to ensure the provision of essential commodities and food supplies in the related areas.

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When asked about the decision, the District Health Officer (DHO) said that over 200 positive cases have been reported from sector G-9 after the lockdown – imposed to curb the spread of Covid-19 – was eased by the government last month.

Shafqaat said that in the next phase, they will review and seal I-10/1, G-7/4, G-8, I-8 as well as Ghauri Town and Lohi Bher areas.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 12^th, 2020.