The Punjab government has decided to impose a total lockdown in some parts of Lahore, as cases of coronavirus are reported in the provincial capital, health minister Yasmin Rashid confirmed.
"Many parts of Lahore will be closed at noon tomorrow," the minister said during a news conference. She added that the areas of full closure are Shahdra, Shad Bagh and Harnispura.
Meanwhile, some areas in Gulberg will also be completely closed and some businesses in Lahore by Iqbal.
These areas include Shahdara, the city wall, Harban's Pura, Nishtar Town, Cantt, Mozang and parts of the city of Allama Iqbal.
They have been closed for two weeks. Pharmacies, supermarkets and tandoors in these areas remain open for residents to purchase easily.
"Supermarkets and pharmacies will remain open in these areas," said the minister, adding that the areas will be completely closed for at least two weeks. She added that these areas will reopen after the situation is assessed.
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The minister said residents can call the helpline number provided by the government in an emergency. Residents can call 1122 for emergency services. For other emergency services, call 04299211136-37-38.
Many People's accused the PTI government of not checking things and compared us to countries like New Zealand and Taiwan," she said.
The population of New Zealand is half that of Lahore. It's much easier to get the virus under control than in a massively populated country like ours, "Rashid said.
She added that people believe that ventilators are the only way to treat a coronavirus patient and expose the misconception. The minister said the government would provide ventilators and intensive care beds in all of the city's hospitals.
People don't understand that this is a viral infection, Rashid complained. "It is very important to understand that we can only fight the virus by wearing masks and social distance."
Dr. Rashid again urged people to follow standard government work instructions to prevent the virus from spreading. She added that wearing a mask can stop the virus by 50%.
