Markets across Punjab to remain closed from midnight till August 5: Chohan

LAHORE: Punjab Information Minister Fayyazul Hasan Chohan announced on Monday that markets in the province will close from midnight tonight till August 5 as the government adopts tough measures to stem the spread of coronavirus during Eid-ul-Azha.

"All business and commercial centres in Punjab will remain closed till August 5," the minister said in his statement.

Traders reject orders

However, trade organisations of Lahore have rejected the government's orders and said that they would open the markets.

They were speaking to media after an emergency meeting called to discuss the latest government directives.

Trader leader, Tariq Javed, said: "Traders reject tomorrow's lockdown," adding that all markets would open and safety measures would be ensured.

"Problems will arise if the government tried to stop us forcibly," he added.

A day earlier, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health Dr Zafar Mirza had advised people to be cautious of the coronavirus and observe the safety standard operating procedures (SOPs) during Eid-ul-Azha.

Addressing a news conference, he had urged people to book sacrificial animals online so that they can avoid visits to the cattle markets, where large gatherings can contribute to the spread of the virus.

Dr Mirza had said that the government had prepared in advance for Eid-ul-Azha keeping in mind the violation of SOPs that took place during Eid-ul-Fitr earlier. He added that citizens are not allowed to set up cattle markets inside city premises this time.

"Children, the elderly and the sick should not be taken to the cattle markets and people should try to make collective sacrifices this time," he added.

Mirza had also underscored that the citizens should abide by the issued guidelines to perform Eid prayers to stem the spread of the contagious disease.