KARACHI: Business and commercial activities returned to normalcy on Monday as the Sindh government relaxed coronavirus restrictions.
Under the new restrictions, markets and business activities may continue till 8PM. This includes grocery stores, fish and meat shops, vegetable and fruit vendors, e-commerce, and bakeries. However, all markets will remain closed on Fridays and Sundays
Outdoor dining is allowed for a maximum of 300 people till 10PM under strict coronavirus safety precautions. Indoor dining will not be allowed. Essential services are allowed to open longer. These include pharmacies, medical facilities, vaccination centres, petrol pumps, milk shops, and tandoors.
Weddings and other functions are only allowed in open spaces with a maximum of 300 guests till 10pm with strict enforcement of safety protocols. Indoor weddings remain banned. Takeaway and home delivery are allowed 24/7, subject to strict adherence to safety measures with staff and delivery personnel fully vaccinated.
Dine-in at restaurants, shrines, and cinemas to remain closed. All indoor gatherings, including cultural, musical, religious events are strictly prohibited. Contact sports have been banned and gyms are allowed only vaccinated individuals. Offices to only call 50% staff to work.
Public transport will run sanctioned routes with 50% occupancy and staff fully vaccinated. Snacks are not allowed onboard vehicles. Railway services to continue with 50% occupancy, subject to enforcement of strict safety protocols and vaccination of all staff.
Amusement parks, swimming pools, and water sports facilities remain closed. Public parks to remain open subject to the following of safety measures. Tourism activities will only be allowed for vaccinated individuals. Domestic airlines to no longer serve meals or snacks. Wearing of masks compulsory at all public places.
However, the Sindh government has warned that if coronavirus cases continue to surge across the country, strict restrictions may be imposed once again.
