AJK to reimpose lockdown amid fears of second Covid-19 wave

PM Raja Farooq Haider directs authorities to devise strategy to stem coronavirus upsurge

The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government has decided to reimpose lockdown in the region amid fears of second novel coronavirus wave.

The decision was taken during a meeting headed by AJK Prime Minister Raja Farooq Haider on Sunday to review the Covid-19 situation in the region, Radio Pakistan reported.

Haider also directed the departments concerned to devise a plan within two days to impose restrictions to curb spread of the contagion.

It was also decided in the meeting to make wearing face masks mandatory in public places and offices and also charge fine in case of non-compliance.

The premier asked the officials to ensure the implementation on coronavirus standard operating procedures (SOPs) particularly in public transport and educational intuitions.

So far, the region has reported 2,816 infections with 75 deaths whereas 2,395 patients have recovered from the virus.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Imran Khan had also urged the nation to follow pre-cautionary measures against Covid-19 as country is approaching winter season.

“Compared to some other states, Allah has been kind to us in Pakistan and spared us worst effects of Covid-19. There is a fear onset of winter could result in 2nd wave. I urge everyone to wear face masks in public to avoid a spike. All offices and educational institutions must ensure masks are worn,” he wrote on his official Twitter handle.

Compared to some other states, Allah has been kind to us in Pak & spared us worst effects of COVID-19. There is a fear onset of winter could result in 2nd wave. I urge everyone to wear face masks in public to avoid a spike. All offices & ed institutions must ensure masks are worn

— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) October 4, 2020