Lahore: The Government of Punjab has implemented a 3-day complete lockdown starting today (Friday) till Sunday night; following the reopening of various businesses amid the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic, a news source reported.
All the major cities of the province witnessed violations in the government’s standard operating procedures (SOPs) due to an unusual rush of crowds in the market. The National Coordination Committee (NCC) had permitted the limited reopening of businesses after deciding to ease the lockdown.
Previously, the government had allowed reopening of low-risk sectors and industries, including mining, fertilizers, construction, glass manufacturing, e-commerce, chemical manufacturing, and others to generate economic activity in the country. It was informed that the provincial government has decided to implement the lockdown strictly and is taking steps against those violating the SOPs.
Provincial Law Minister Raja Basharat highlighted that the SOPs were violated during the eased lockdown and these could potentially accelerate the numbers of COVID-19 patients. The minister said that the government will strictly implement the lockdown for 3 days. However, it was informed that pharmacies and grocery stores would be allowed to operate.
