Islamabad (Web Desk): Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday said that the help of Pakistan Army has been sought to support the law enforcement agencies in ensuring compliance to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for curbing the novel coronavirus.
Addressing the nation after chairing a meeting of National Command and Operation Center (NCOC) in Islamabad, the premier appealed to the people to strictly follow the SOPs to avoid complete lockdown.
“If people do not comply with health guidelines and situation further deteriorates, we will have to impose lockdowns in the cities,” PM Khan warned.
He, however, said at present we are not resorting to that option as it will affect the economy, the industries and especially the under privileged segments of the society including daily wagers and labourers.
The premier emphasised on the need to wear a mask at all times.
"Barely anyone is following SOPs anymore," he said, adding that if we are not careful, the situation in Pakistan will be similar to that of India in the next one or two weeks.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Planning and Development Asad Umer announced a series of measures and restrictions to avoid the spread of COVID-19.
The minister announced the following decisions which were taken during the NCC meeting.
1. Schools in cities with virus positivity rates above 5% closed until Eid, including classes 9-12
2. Markets will remain open till 6pm. Only essential businesses can operate after 6pm.
3. Eid shopping will not be possible after Iftar.
4. Outdoor and indoor dining banned until Eid. Takeaway and deliveries will be allowed.
5. Indoor gyms to be closed.
6. Offices capacity at 50% and are to be closed daily at 2pm.
7. 50% work from home policy to be implemented in offices.