Karachi to undergo smart and micro lockdowns as coronavirus cases rise

KARACHI: Smart and micro lockdowns will be imposed in all districts of the city b today or tomorrow, said Administrator Karachi Iftikhar Shallwani on Friday, as coronavirus cases surge across the country. 

The decision was taken during a meeting chaired by Shallwani which was attended by deputy commissioners and the district health officers. Secretary health Kazim Jatoi was also part of the meeting.

"Micro lockdowns will be imposed in districts Malir and Korangi," said Shallwani. "All deputy commissioners should consult their respective health officers [on the lockdowns]. The notification announcing the lockdown should be released by today or tomorrow," he added.

Shallwani said that Karachi's districts south, east, central and west will release notifications announcing the imposition of smart lockdowns by tomorrow (Saturday).

In areas where the smart lockdowns will be imposed, no more than four persons will be allowed to gather at one place and wearing masks will be made compulsory. Only one person will be allowed to leave his/her house and will have to explain the reason for venturing out to law enforcement personnel.

People will not be allowed to hold events or social gatherings in areas where the smart lockdowns will be imposed.

Gulleys, neighbourhoods and areas will be sealed in accordance with the directives of the district health officers in the districts of Malir and Korangi, said Shallwani.

A total of 2,738 new COVID-19 cases were confirmed in the past 24 hours, bringing the tally to 368,665 . With 36 new deaths, the country's coronavirus death toll reached 7,561. So far, a total of 327,542 people have recovered from the virus while the active number of cases stands at 33,562.

With 42,909 tests conducted across Pakistan, the positivity rate has reached 6.3%.