NCOC decides to shut sectors over violation of SOPs

NCOC underscored that the number of corona patients and deaths is on the rise again

The National Command and Operations Centre (NCOC) on Wednesday warned against another lockdown if SOPs were continued to be violated.  

NCOC categorically stated that businesses will have to face another lockdown and strict action will be taken against those violating SOPs. 

Chief secretaries from all provinces were asked to ensure that SOPs were implemented strictly and special attention was paid to high risk sectors like transport, markets, wedding halls, restaurants and public gatherings.

NCOC underscored that the number of corona patients and deaths was on the rise again and stressed that strict monitoring of public gathering should be ensured to limit the increase in the number of cases.

“People should use masks and maintain social distance,” the statement issued by NCOC said

The statement further said the government will take strict actions against violators of SOPs and impose heavy fine on them. If the SOPs are not implemented properly services might have to be shut down.

In September, NCOC had expressed concern after an increase in Covid-19 cases was observed, particularly in Karachi.

The country recorded 747 cases a day before, out of which, at least 365 cases were from the port city.

The forum was informed by Secretary Health Sindh Zahid Abassi that the civil administration of Karachi was monitoring the situation and appropriate administrative action will be taken in regards to virus prevalence and spread patter after consultation with all stakeholders.

Primary schools across the country opened today in the third phase of reopening of educational institutions. Primary classes have resumed under strict Covid-19 standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Pakistan imposed a strict lockdown across the country earlier in March, after the spread of the pandemic in the country. The lack down was gradually relaxed and economic activity was allowed to resume. The World Health Organisation also praised the country's handling of the outbreak.