Another lockdown

Just days after lockdown restrictions were eased, the government has once again threatened to impose a strict lockdown if safety precautions and SOPs were violated. The federal cabinet took note of the blatant violations across the country and disregard for regulations.

In Sindh, there have been 731 more coronavirus cases and 16 deaths amid the lockdown relaxation. The province has seen a surge in cases ever since the lockdown was eased. It is regrettable that businesses have not adhered to commitments as a precondition for reopening businesses and now our worst fears have come true.

The government has expressed frustration over people flocking to shopping centres and openly flouting social distancing and other guidelines. In Karachi, authorities sealed major markets in the congested Saddar and downtown areas. The shops were found to be crowded and the shopkeepers were not even wearing a mask.

Governor Sindh has also signed an ordinance that prescribes heavy penalties and fines up to one million rupees on anyone spreading the pandemic. It is imperative that institutions and individuals found responsible for spreading the virus should be penalised. This could be a strong deterrent against lockdown violations.

Chief Minister Sindh has stated that citizens’ lack of seriousness has compelled the government to reconsider imposing restrictions again. The markets have been overcrowded due to the upcoming Eid as people head out to complete their shopping. The markets were opened so we have some joy on the auspicious occasion but our disregard for basic laws has taken this away from us.

Eid would be a lot different this year as the government has imposed a ban on large gatherings. This means that Eid prayers will not be held which would be upsetting for many people. There will no processions for Youm-e-Ali either that is being observed this week.

The pandemic has certainly impacted our lives and way of living and could affect us for a long time. The WHO has warned that new coronavirus may never go and we would have to live with it. If this holds true, then we would have to alter our living conditions and be prepared for the consequences.