Sindh government’s role amid coronavirus

The Sindh government has extended the ongoing COVID-19 lockdown regime in the province till the end of the holy month of Ramazan. In this regard, Sindh government spokesman Barrister Murtaza Wahab has reiterated that the situation in Sindh is more hazardous than other provinces in Pakistan due to which the unpleasant lockdown will continue till Eid. However, the sectors that have been previously allowed to operate will continue their operations in accordance with the SOPs.

The first two infections of coronavirus were reported in Karachi, after which the leaders, ministers, and advisers of the provincial government looked hectic, and apparently all sorts of steps were taken to ensure the safety of the people. However, the number of COVID-19 infections in Pakistan has reached 17,600 and Sindh is now at the top of the provinces chart with more than 6,600 cases.

The Sindh government has constantly reiterated that the situation in the province is alarming and today’s figures have confirmed the government’s statement. However, it is worth noting here that when the provincial government is taking stern measures then why the coronavirus infections are increasing instead of decreasing.

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah had recently joined hands and warned not to politicize the coronavirus pandemic, however, the Sindh government does not seem to be doing anything but showmanship and rhetoric.

The Sindh government was the first in the country to impose a lockdown, but the government could not provide the required facilities to the people and traders. As a result, workers were forced to leave their homes, and traders are also challenging the government writ. While the government’s permission for an online business is just a political statement, the ground realities show that the majority of our country’s population is completely ignorant of online business.

The government’s decision to extend lockdown by the end of Ramadan may be correct in terms of increasing cases of coronavirus, but it can be challenging for the people suffering from hunger, malnutrition, and unemployment. Because the lockdown that has been going on for a month and a half has overwhelmed the patience of the people.

The government should also take steps to provide facilities to the people along with the prevention of COVID-19 as the storm of unemployment is also raging due to continuous lockdowns. Therefore, if immediate steps are not taken, the government may face many more crises along with coronavirus pandemic.