Staff Reporter
Islamabad
The National Command and Operations Centre (NCOC) expressed concern on Wednesday 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.
During the meeting, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health Dr Faisal Sultan highlighted that the strategy of smart lockdowns, contact tracing and following health protocols is essential for controlling the spread of the virus.
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 pattern after consultation with all stakeholders. Following an increase in the number of coronavirus cases in Karachi, the Sindh Health Department has written to the Karachi police chief and deputy commissioners, asking them to ensure strict implementation of the standard operating procedures devised to contain the pandemic and impose a ‘micro smart lockdown’ in affected areas to prevent the virus from spreading further.
The health department also suggested deploying additional police officials to enforce this lockdown, adding that district health officers should be consulted in this regard. Meanwhile, Karachi Commissioner Sohail Rajput ordered officials to take action against restaurants and wedding halls violating SOPs.
