As coronavirus situation continues to worsen across Pakistan, the country recorded 100 deaths for the first time since December last year.
Out of the 100 death, 73 were reported in Punjab, 18 in Sindh, and four in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Meanwhile, Islamabad and Azad Kashmir reported two deaths each, while one person died of coronavirus in Balochistan.
The government has imposed stringent restrictions to curb coronavirus cases, but the number of cases has continued to spike. Pakistan reported at least 4,084 infections in the past 24 hours, while the positivity rate was recorded at 8.82 per cent.
According to the National Command and Operation Centre’s (NCOC), Punjab reported over 2,400 infections, with most of the cases being reported in Lahore. Lahore has reported 1,402 infections as the provincial capital faces a shortage of hospital beds with its positivity rate crossing 20 per cent.
Meanwhile, NCOC Chairman Asad Umar has asked all provinces to ensure the compliance of coronavirus SOPs. The planning minister, in a letter to the provincial secretaries, said that people have been flouting the anti-virus measures during the third wave.
Amid a rise in infections, politicians and leaders not wearing masks or practicing social distancing are sending out a bad message to the public, he said in the letter.
“We are, therefore, requesting provinces to make sure people are wearing masks, social distancing and taking all necessary precautions,” he added.
On Sunday, the NCOC banned all social, cultural, political, sports, and other events with immediate effect.
A complete ban on marriages (including indoor & outdoor) will come into effect from April 5 onwards. However, provinces will be at liberty to implement restrictions earlier as per the situation on the ground.
The NCOC will provide updated hotspot maps to provinces for enforcement of expanded lockdowns with effect from 29th March 2. These decisions will be implemented in districts/cities with an average positivity rate of 8 per cent.
