KARACHI: More localities of Karachi’s District Central were put under ‘smart lockdown’ today (Thursday) as COVID-19 infections continue to surge across the city, according to a notification.
The neighbourhoods where smart lockdowns have been imposed include Gulberg (Karimabad and FB Area’s Block-7, 10, 12, 14 and 15), Liaquatabad (Azam Nagar and Block-3 of Nazimabad), North Karachi (Sector 10 and 11-A) and North Nazimabad (Block A, B, C, H, N, J, I and Sector 14-B, Sector 15-A1, Sector-15-A-2, Sector 15-B,).
The district’s deputy commissioner informed that the lockdown imposed in several areas will remain in effect till December 16. The streets and houses identified as COVID-19 hotspots in these areas will remain sealed for a period of two weeks.
The notification stressed that the authorities will strictly enforce COVID-19 SOPs to curb the deadly virus. Only grocery stores, pharmacies, and essentials shops will be allowed to remain open in affected areas.
Meanwhile, indoor dining remains banned in Karachi and is only allowed in restaurants that can cater to customers in open spaces; however, delivery is permitted. Markets and business centres have been ordered to close by 8pm six days throughout the week and close down completely on Sundays.
Last month, Sindh Health Minister Azra Pechuho had asserted that the number of coronavirus patients in ICUs had risen, raising alarm bells that the health situation across the province was worsening.
