Maintaining safety precautions

National Command and Control Center (NCOC) has warned that the coronavirus infections across the country could spread in full force during Muharram. Therefore, it has been urged to strictly follow the standard operating procedures (SOPs) to avert the outbreak of the deadly virus.

Pakistan has seen a significant reduction in the severity of the coronavirus outbreak. Yesterday, Pakistan reported 15 more deaths from the deadly disease, after which the number of COVID-19 deaths crosses 6,110. On the other hand, almost 531 new infections were reported across the country and the total number of cases has risen to 285,191.

The Centre and the provincial governments had completely lifted the lockdown after the number of coronavirus infections decreased and the people have returned to normal life. However, despite the instructions of the implementation of the SOPs, the people of Pakistan had inadequately flouted the precautionary measures.

After the reopening of shopping malls, restaurants, and parks, a large number of citizens can be seen walking around without masks and not practicing social distancing rules. Pakistan’s positivity rate and death toll are much better than other countries, while the government of Pakistan also created facilities for the people during the lockdown compared to other governments around the globe.

However, the public’s response to the outbreak has led to an increase in infections. The government has lifted the lockdown in view of the plight of the people, but now it is the people’s responsibility to take precautions instead of risking their lives and their loved ones. However, more caution is required during processions and gatherings during the month of Muharram.

The fulfillment of religious duties is of course necessary, but in the meantime, it is also the responsibility of the people to protect their own lives and of others. Therefore, the instructions and warnings of the National Command and Control Center should be taken seriously and every precaution must be taken to defeat the deadly pandemic completely.