Micro lockdown in four towns

Food delivery and ride hailing services, gatherings banned at homes on selected streets

KARACHI:

In the wake of increase in cases of coronavirus and Omicron variant, micro smart lockdown (MSLD) has been imposed in various streets of four towns of Karachi.

According to a statement issued by the central deputy commissioner, the smart lockdown has been imposed on the recommendation of the district health officer. The towns where smart lockdown has been imposed include Gulberg, Liaquatabad, North Karachi and North Nazimabad. Implementation of smart lock down in these towns will continue till February 5.

The notification states that there is a significant increase in Omicron variant cases in these areas. The purpose of the smart lockdown is to curb spread of Omicron and protect people. According to the notification issued by the Central District Deputy Commissioner Taha Saleem, the smart lockdown was imposed on the recommendations of the District Health Officer (DHO) Karachi Central.

The DHO had warned about the emerging hotspots with respect to the spread of COVID-19 in various areas of district amid the fifth wave of the pandemic. Therefor in order to reduce the transmission and spread of Covid-19 the micro-smart lockdown was imposed in hotspots.

Discrete Micro Smart lockdowns (MSLD) will be enforced in the streets and houses of specified areas. Anyone entering or exiting the lockdown areas shall wear a mask without any exception. Movement of people residing in areas under lockdown shall be strictly restricted. Only grocery shops, convenience stores and pharmacies will be allowed to remain open in these areas during specific timings as per directives issued by NCOC and Home Department.

All kinds of Industrial units falling in these areas shall remain closed. No home delivery, take away of any sort will be allowed from restaurants and food supply services. Only one attendant, where extremely necessary, shall be allowed with a patient.

No private, family get-together will be allowed in homes during the MSLD period. Residents coming out of their houses should have valid reason to do so. Pillion riding shall be strictly banned in these areas. All public transport including buses, taxis, rickshaws, and ride hailing services like Uberr and Careem are banned in these areas.

Government will make every effort to provide mobile dispensaries , mobile utility stores in these areas. The Assistant Commissioners concerned shall ensure proper lockdown security plan in coordination with the respective Deputy Superintendent of Police. Assistant Commissioners shall also ensure to take onboard Administrator Union Councils, Member Peace Committees and renowned philanthropist of the locality.