KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Thursday hinted at an extension of lockdown in Sindh by a week beyond April 14.
While speaking to media persons, the chief minister called for a uniform policy to be implemented in all provinces across the country to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus. He said that decision on an extension in lockdown will be taken after approval from the provincial cabinet.
The chief minister said that the standard operating procedures (SOPs) are being devised to allow any activity in the province. He said the government is considering to make industries and factories operational and that they would be allowed to operate with minimum employees to ensure social distancing and safety measures.
He said that the lockdown could not be ended abruptly and the restrictions will be lifted gradually. He said that shopping centres and markets cannot be reopened currently despite the pressure from the business community and small traders on the lockdown.
The chief minister said any move to allow construction activity in the province could spread coronavirus. “If a lockdown remains enforced from the federal government for the next week then it could help in overcoming the pandemic,” he said.
He expressed concern over the spread of the virus from the places of ration distribution and said that thousands of people were gathering at such places to collect food. He added that they have been asked to manage these places but still have reservations with the federal government.
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