Imran sets up coronavirus relief fund

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan announced on Monday the establishment of a relief fund and a volunteers’ force to complement government’s efforts against coronavirus pandemic, as he once again insisted a countrywide lockdown sans a mechanism to feed 25 per cent poor of the country would not work.

The new measures come as virus cases in the country crossed 1,700 with 22 deaths so far. Punjab had the highest number of cases reaching 638 followed by Sindh with 529 patients. The Prime Minister, in his televised address to the nation, said a cell was working in the Prime Minister’s Office, and it would be cleared what direction the virus outbreak was going to take in next five to seven days.

The Prime Minister formally announcing the formation of Coronavirus Relief Tiger Force and PM Coronavirus Relief Fund, said the proposed team of young volunteers would assist the civil administration and the army in coronavirus relief efforts. The team would provide food and other necessary items to people and advise them how to observe self-quarantine.

Khan emphasised faith and young population were Pakistan’s two major strengths which needed to be utilised to address the coronavirus challenge.He reiterated that the old and sick were at the high risk and needed to be protected against the infection. He stressed the need for social distancing to prevent the spread of the virus.

He further said the State Bank of Pakistan would allow cheaper loans for those organisations which would not lay off their workers amid virus pandemic.The Prime Minister warned hoarders of stern action as he said such illegal practices would create price hike and panic. He assured people there was no shortage of commodities.