KARACHI: Dozens of shops were sealed in several areas of Karachi for violating the standard operating procedures (SOPs) devised to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
The district administration teams, backed by contingents of police and Sindh Rangers, also levied a cumulative fine on grocers, fruit and vegetable shops, poultry, mutton and beef sellers for charging above the official rates from customers at this high end shopping hub.
A local hotel’s hall was sealed in Saddar where a wedding ceremony was being organised, whereas, a restaurant, gym, garment store and a milk shop were also sealed in Defence Housing Authority (DHA).
Moreover, the deputy commissioner carried out actions in Malir district, whereas, more than 50 shops were sealed in Quaidabad, Murad Memon and Ibrahim Hyderi areas besides issuing warning to several shopkeepers.
The assistant commissioner Ferozabad conducted a flag march in Tariq Road and Sindhi Muslim Society. During the visit, several restaurants located have been instructed to strictly follow SOPs during takeaway and delivery services.
Four shops including a shopping mall, beauty saloon and gaming centre have been sealed by the assistant commissioner over the violation of business timings. The assistant commissioner said that East District has the highest number of COVID-19 cases.
Sindh restricts unnecessary movement
The Sindh government on Monday took the decision to limit the movement of citizens in the province from May 25 in order to mitigate the recent uptick in COVID-19 cases in the province.
The new restrictions decided during a meeting of the coronavirus provincial task force chaired by CM Murad, will now limit unnecessary movement after 8pm. Only those individuals who have a valid reason to be out after 8pm will be allowed to do so.
The restrictions apply across the province, but have a focus on Karachi and Hyderabad, as the two cities have reported a higher number of cases when compared to the rest of the province.
Business hours in the province will be from 5am to 6pm whereas bakeries and milk shops will be allowed to open till 12 midnight. Departmental and superstores would be allowed to remain open till 6pm whereas businesses would remain closed on Fridays and Sundays.
