PM Imran directs to ensure implementation of smart lockdown

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan has directed the concerned authorities to ensure the implementation of smart lockdown to contain the outbreak of the novel coronavirus.

According to a press release, PM Imran chaired a review meeting on the ongoing pandemic situation in the country.

The meeting was attended by Information Minister Shibli Faraz, Interior Minister Ijaz Shah, Planning Minister Asad Umar, Industry Minister Hamad Azhar, Special Assistant for Health Dr. Zafar Mirza, Special Assistant for Information Lt-Gen (retd) Asim Saleem Bajwa, Special Assistant Dr. Moeed Yousaf, Focal Person for COVID-19 Dr. Faisal Sultan, NDMA Chairman Lt Gen. Muhammad Afzal and other senior officers.

The press release informed that matters pertaining to the overall pandemic situation, number of oxygenated beds in hospitals, demand, and supply of oxygen, and implementation of smart lockdown were discussed.

PM Imran further directed the authorities to involve local community leaders as well as the volunteers of the Tiger Force to ensure the implementation of smart lockdown.

The premier also directed for finalisation of the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for Eidul Azha in consultation with the provincial governments as soon as possible.

In this regard, PM Imran said, “This year, Eidul Azha will be being celebrated under extraordinary circumstances. The current situation demands that clear SOPs should be formulated soon for the protection of the people.”  

The prime minister was apprised about the efforts being made to increase the number of beds reserved for COVID-19 patients in the hospitals across the country.

NDMA Chairman Lt Gen Muhammad Afzal briefed the meeting about the supply of beds to the various hospitals in all provinces. He added the beds capacity would be increased by 2,150 beds by mid-July.

The prime minister also expressed satisfaction over the steps being taken to meet the needs of beds and oxygen.

Authorities have imposed 549 smart and targeted lockdowns in areas where maximum coronavirus patients have been reported, according to the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC).