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The situation is worsening from the coronavirus as many cities and districts across the country are recording positivity rate of around eight percent. The National Command and Operations Centre (NCOC), the main body dealing with the pandemic, has decided to increase restrictions on activities contributing to a sharp increase in COVID-19 cases in most parts of the country.
The third wave of the pandemic has engulfed the nation. Last week, more than 3,000 cases were reported daily while the positivity ratio in many cities reached alarmingly high at eight percent. The government has already imposed smart lockdown in most parts of the country and tightened restrictions on all commercial and business activities.
In the latest decision, the NCOC has ordered that all businesses shall close by 8PM and remain open only five days a week. The provinces have the discretion to pick two safe days per week. Not much has changed except that the restrictions have been tightened. Indoor dining, cinemas, amusement parks, sports events and entertainment venues remain closed.
The more vital decision regarding the closure of schools will be taken on March 24. Education Minister Shafqat Mahmood said it is a very tough decision but must be taken. Educational institutes were closed in seven cities of Punjab till March 28, switching to online education but the minister said that students are not satisfied with the mode of education. This government will have to mull over the decision to ensure that the lives and health of students are not affected and they can continue with their studies.
The pandemic is unlikely will end anytime soon as we are seeing a slow pace of vaccine inoculation. The next batch of vaccines which we purchased from CanSino Pharma will be arriving later month. The private sector is also importing the vaccine but there has already been a dispute over pricing after the government withdrew its decision to allow uncapped prices for the vaccines.
There are rumours being spread about the vaccine which has increased vaccine hesitancy. Reports of vaccines causing blood clots, paralytic attacks and health conditions have also raised concerns. Most worrisome is our complete disregard for safety precautions which we receive every time we make a phone call. Citizens should enforce these rules to protect their lives and health of others as well.
