COVID-19 updates: School closure, other restrictions reviewed

In the wake of worsening situation of COVID-19 in Pakistan, the authorities have decided to put restrictions on schools and other public activities once again.

Educational institutions in Islamabad, Peshawar and seven cities of Punjab will remain closed from March 15, Federal Education Minister Shafqat Mahmood announced.

The fortnightly school closure in Punjab was announced in Lahore, Multan, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Sialkot, Gujaranwala and Gujrat.

“Educational Institutions in Sindh and Baluchistan would continue with 50% attendance every day,” Mahmood wrote on Twitter.

2/2 Educational Institutions in Sindh and Baluchistan would continue with 50% attendance every day. In Punjab spring break will start from Monday March 15 to March 28 in the following cities and all education institutions: Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Multan, 3/3

— Shafqat Mahmood (@Shafqat_Mahmood) March 10, 2021

3/3 Faisalabad and Gujrat. In Capital territory all educational institutions will also close from March 15. In KP they will close in Peshawar. Decision regarding Muzzafarabad will be taken by AJK Government. We will continue to review the situation

— Shafqat Mahmood (@Shafqat_Mahmood) March 10, 2021

“COVID positive cases are increasing in the country and our health system is under pressure due to which we have reviewed our decisions,” said Special Assistant to Prime Minister Dr Faisal Sultan while briefing media after National Command and Operation Center’s meeting.

All the parks will be closed for public after 6pm while 50% attendance will be allowed in offices in the capital territory, according to the SAPM.

The decision regarding opening cinemas for public from March 15 was also taken back.

The SAMP has advised people to take precautions and keep following the COVID-19 SOPs.