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The third wave of the coronavirus pandemic has arrived in Pakistan. This has been confirmed by the NCOC head Asad Umar and Health Adviser Dr Faisal Sultan, the two men who are leading the nation’s response against the pandemic.
Pakistan has witnessed a surge in coronavirus cases since the past few days. The nation has crossed the grim milestone of 600,000 cases while the death toll has surpassed 13,300. The actual figures would be certainly higher as we have started showing a lax attitude towards the pandemic which continues to affect us. Just yesterday, there were over 2,700 cases reported which is the highest since January and an indication that all gains in the past two months have been erased.
The province of Sindh has reported the highest number of cases and positivity ratios since several days. However, the situation has been worsening in Punjab, compelling the government to shut down markets by evening and strictly enforce all safety precautions. The government was also compelled to reconsider its decision on school reopening and announced a spring break in seven cities across Punjab.
Asad Umar has also admitted that the situation is worsening but he attributed the rising number of cases due to UK-variant. The strain which is present in the country is more contagious and the mortality rate is also higher which poses a greater threat. This was supposed brought by British Pakistanis citizens and we witnessed a surge in their towns and communities. The situation could persist until we are able to control the pandemic.
Due to the rising number of cases, the government has strengthened restrictions in Islamabad where all residents have been tasked to wear marks while all markets will be closed by evening. Cinemas, parks, indoor dining and weddings have been shut down as we are in a dangerous situation. The commissioner has imposed Section144 and urged residents have been to enforce safety precautions.
The reopening of schools last month was blamed on the surge but we have understood that different factors were at stake. Despite the heath crisis, we have not realized the gravity of the situation and continue to flout rules. We should realize that the third wave of the coronavirus is dangerous and affects our lives and health and should take the matter seriously.
