Panic buying of grocery over coronavirus

Islamabad : Despite the repeated calls of authorities for calm over the growing coronavirus incidence, many residents are found to be stockpiling grocery fearing shortages.

They said they're growing more and more concerned about how to prevent the deadly virus and were stopping unnecessary movements, so they'd begun buying key kitchen items in large quantities to be on the safe side.

The residents feared food shortages on the market in light of the growing incidence of coronavirus in the country, including Islamabad and Rawalpindi, closure of weekly bazaars, and possibility of travel restrictions.

While complaining about the authorities' failure to ensure the adequate availability of surgical and N95 masks, hand wipes and sanitisers on the market, they feared essential items too would be scarce in the days ahead.

Some opined that the panic buying could increase prices of kitchen goods.

The educational institutions, parks and other key public places have already been shut by the authorities as a precautionary measure against coronavirus, the people fear the imposition of Section 144 to restrict the gathering of five people and more in a place. Dr Zafar Mirza, special assistant to the prime minister on national health services, has already said the government will develop a comprehensive plan to prevent food shortages in the country.