Islamabad (Web Desk): Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday said that Pakistan cannot afford another lockdown, urging the nation to follow the government's standard operating procedures (SOPs) regarding prevention of the novel coronavirus.
Addressing the volunteers of Corona Relief Tiger Force in Islamabad, the premier said that the volunteers were needed to sensitize public about precautionary measures during gradual opening of lockdown.
"In Pakistan we have 1,700 deaths, we knew corona would spread. We have to understand corona is a virus that spreads when people gather so that is why we need to maintain social distancing,” the PM noted.
He said many people needed awareness and guidance to follow the SOPs including social distancing and care.
As a result of precautionary measures, the death toll in Pakistan is so far less than many other countries of the world, PM
Imran said adding that the services of volunteers will also be needed in areas where smart lockdowns will be implemented in the coming days.
The PM said medical community across the world is facing pressure and we can avoid it if we get the people to follow the SOPs.
He said lockdowns impact the livelihoods of people and poor countries are grappling with this situation. He gave the example of neighboring India, where strict lockdown resulted in millions of people going unemployed.
The premier said that the youth force will also work along district administration in efforts to control the locust.
Imran Khan added that services of volunteers will also be utilised in tree plantation under Clean and Green Pakistan program.