Sindh, Punjab withdraw coronavirus restrictions, extend business hours

KARACHI: The Sindh and Punjab governments have lifted the coronavirus restrictions, allowing businesses to resume operations subject to strict adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs).

According to a notification from Sindh Home Department, the Sindh government had agreed with the decision of a majority of the provinces despite some differences of opinion on opening up.

The notification informed that the businesses have been allowed to reopen subject to strict adherence of SOPs, but acknowledged that the disease was still prevalent and likely to increase if no adequate precautions are taken.

The provincial government allowed businesses to open for six days a week from 6am to 8pm — except for pharmacies and other essential services. “However, educational institutions and marriage halls in Sindh will be allowed to reopen from September 15,” the notification added.

The businesses allowed to resume from August 10 include:

Hotels, restaurants and cafes (Takeaway, dine-in and delivery)

Parks and grounds

Cinemas and theatres

Non-contact sports, sports clubs and gyms

Beauty parlours and spas

Shrines (for permitted gatherings)

Tourism

Public transport with SOPs

The notification also informed that the businesses will be required to allow only one-third of their normal capacity of customers inside their establishments at a time.

“Restaurants will also be opened for dine-in till 10:00pm. The last order must be taken an hour before closing. Customers must be seated with a distance of over three feet between them,” it added.

The notification also informed that no procession or gathering will be allowed which has not been given permission for in advance. “The provincial government/district administration, by order, may restrict all/any activity/area which is identified as [a] hotspot/high risk for the spread of Covid-19,” the notification added.

‘Punjab’

On the other hand, on the directions of NCOC and Punjab Chief Minister, Secretary Primary and Secondary Healthcare Captain (retired) Muhammad Usman issued the notification.

The notification said, “With the exception of wedding halls, all business centres have been reopened from today. Religious gatherings will be subject to the permission of the concerned administration and implementation of SOPs.”