ISLAMABAD: Minister for Planning and Development Asad Umar said that the positive cases of COVID-19 are gradually coming down in the country, however, he warned that the threat is not over.
Addressing a news conference, the federal minister was confident that the situation will further improve in the next fifteen days and reduce the existing pressure on the hospitals.
He said tougher restrictions were imposed in 24 districts earlier this month to curb the spread of the virus. He expressed satisfaction that the situation has now improved in 18 districts.
The minister said that educational institutions are being reopened from Thursday, September 16, in a staggered manner He said that the high degree of restrictions will stay in place in the remaining six districts till 22nd September including Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, Sargodha, Gujarat, and Bannu.
Intercity transport is being allowed with fifty percent occupancy. Outdoor dining will now be allowed in these districts by twelve midnight but indoor dining will remain closed. He said that amusement parks are being opened for fully vaccinated people and outdoor gathering of upto 400 people is being allowed.
Asad Umar urged the people to get themselves vaccinated against the disease. He said those not getting the vaccine jab will have to face restrictions on air travel and visits to different places such as shopping malls, guest houses, hotels from 30th September.
Umar said the only way to get rid of these restrictions is to get vaccinated. However, he ruled out the government imposing any restrictions on businesses in the near future.
“We won’t be placing restrictions on businesses. However, restrictions will be imposed on the individual who does not get himself vaccinated,” he added.
