ISLAMABAD: National Command and Operation Center (NCOC), keeping in view the current COVID-19 situation and declining number of cases, has relaxed a number of restrictions on commercial activities and official work.
NCOC has removed condition of 50 percent work from home in all government institutions and also lifted the time-limit from commercial activities and amusement parks. The decision, in this regard, was taken after comprehensive review of existing Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions (NPIs).
It further stated that the decisions can be reviewed in view of increased disease prevalence, whenever deemed necessary. As per NCOC meeting details, provinces can enforce targeted NPIs when required depending upon disease prevalence in a given area or sector.
It was furthered that indoor wedding ceremonies will be allowed from 15th March 2021 with stringent COVID SOPs. Indoor dining will be allowed from 15th March subject to the review on 10th March.
The forum said that the opening of cinemas and shrines allowed with stringent COVID SOPs with effect from 15th March. NCOC decided that wearing of masks, social distancing, smart lockdowns will continue and will be ensured.
From health perspective, the forum decided that the conduct of local bodies elections may be planned by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) by end May or early June 2021.
While taking further decisions, NCOC allowed that spectators’ attendance in Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches be increased to 50 percent instead of presently allowed 20 percent, whereas full attendance will be allowed for play-offs with stringent COVID SOPs.
The statement said the decisions could be reviewed in case infection rate rose again. On the other hand, Pakistan saw another 1,196 people getting infected and 50 dying of Covid-19 in a single day.
