GILGIT: Chief Minister Gilgit-Baltistan Hafiz Hafeezur Rehman has said that the coronaviruses outbreak in the region was an alarming situation.
Addressing a press conference today, the chief minister said that the number of coronaviruses patients had risen to 13 in Gilgit-Baltistan. He cautioned that the numbers might be more than 100 because of over 300 pilgrims are soon going to return to the region.
In view of the alarming situation, the chief minister announced a three-week ban on entry and movement of domestic and local tourists in Gilgit-Baltistan. He said that foreign tourists will be allowed to visit Gilgit-Baltistan after coronavirus certification.
The chief minister also announced the closure of all markets in Gilgit and Skardu from March 22. He added that medical pharmacies, grocery and vegetable shops will remain open.
Hafiz also announced the creation of a coronavirus fund, adding that all govt employees above BPS-7 and cabinet members will contribute five days salary to the fund. The chief minister also announced a restoration of Saturday as a public holiday.
He criticised the role of the federal government in poorly managing issues related to coronavirus process. He pointed out that poor screening processes at the Taftan border had caused widespread virus among pilgrims.
Read more: GB takes effective measures to control coronavirus: CM
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