NCOC extends anti-COVID restrictions to 27 cities as fourth wave grips country

In an official statement, the NCOC directed all educational institutions in Pakistan to open three days a week with 50% attendance.

The government also decided to reduce the timing of commercial activities barring essential services till 8pm.

The cities under new restrictions include, Islamabad, Khanewal, Mianwali, Sargodha, Khushab, Bahawalpur, Multan, Gujranwala, Rawalpindi, Lahore and Rahim Yar Khan, Hyderabad, Karachi Muzaffarabad, Mirpur, Gilgit, Skardu, Peshawar, Swat, Haripur, Mansehra, Lower Dir, Swabi, Abbottabad, Swat and Chitral.

As per statement, all markets will remain closed twice a week however, provinces can decide on their own the days when markets will remain closed.

“Restaurants cannot allow indoor dining whereas, outdoor dining will be allowed till 10pm and Takeaway services will be available 24/7,” the statement added.

In addition, a ban is imposed on indoor weddings. However, outdoor wedding ceremonies with a maximum capacity of 300 guests will be allowed till 10pm.

The restrictions on cinemas will remain in place.

Meanwhile, people can visit public parks but amid strict compliance with COVID-19 related Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

Following the new directives, normal office hours for public and private offices will continue with 50% staff.

According to NCOC, around 3909 cases of coronavirus were reported while 69 people succumbed to the disease in the last 24 hours, taking the total death toll to 25,604.