The National Command and Operation Center (NCOC) on Wednesday has limited large public gatherings, including political gatherings to a maximum of 500 people due to a rise in COVID-19 cases.
NCOC has also called for the immediate closure of cinemas, theatres and shrines. According to the latest official data, Pakistan recorded 21 deaths and 1708 people tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 24 hours.
A total of 344,839 cases have been detected so far with 4,911 cases in Azad Kashmir, Balochistan 16,195, GB 4,394, ICT 22,432, Punjab 107,832, Sindh 151,352 and KPK 41,069. Till now there have been 7021 deaths in the country. Pakistan has reported 634 coronavirus recoveries during the last 24 hours.
NCOC suggest banning large public gatherings as the country seeks a spike in cases.
The NCOC meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Asad Umar reviewed the epidemic curve data and disease prevalence in the country including the education sector.
The Forum was told that the disease had increased three folds since the NCOC recommended to ban large public gatherings and outdoor activities on October 12. The Forum also recommended early winter break for the educational institutions.
NCOC guidelines for all public gatherings including political gatherings limited to 500 people from November 20, 2020. All public gatherings of more than 500 people should be banned including political, cultural, religious, entertainment and civil society gatherings,” NCOC press release stated.
NCOC appreciated SOP compliance in mosques so far since last many months, however, noted a decline in compliance at present and appealed to all stakeholders to further follow the same rather enhance amid possible second wave.
For restaurants, dining will not be allowed after 10pm. Cinemas, theatres and shrines to be closed with immediate effect. Markets will also be closed after 10pm.
