Independence Day: Violations of SOPs witnessed at parks, other public places

LAHORE: Gross violations of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) were witnessed at the parks, restaurants and other public places on the Independence Day on Friday. During a survey conducted by Business Recorder, it was revealed that a vast majority of visitors in Lawrence Garden and Race Course Park was not wearing face masks while the PHA officials did not restrict the entry of those without masks.

Similarly, children in a large number thronged the parks without any social distancing; they were seen playing in playgrounds without following the SOPs. Likewise, in various restaurants at Mozang, Gowanmandi and Islampura areas, the people were found having food without observing the SOPs.

There are reports that the virus, which was on the decline these days, could resurge if the preventive measures were not taken, particularly in view of mourners gathering in the upcoming month of Muharram, sources said. Health professionals have warned the Punjab government that at a time when the pandemic's first wave was not over, a second wave could be devastating if the SOPs were not followed in letter and spirit.

The threat was more potent for the provincial capital that had been on the top among the Coronavirus hotspots in the province, reporting the highest number of deaths and confirmed cases. "Even though the Covid-19 cases are on the decline, the public health threat still exists and the disease may spread again if adequate precautions are not taken," a senior doctor, Dr Aamir Nazir said.

It may be mentioned that the Punjab government has already cautioned the divisional Commissioners and Regional Police Officers (RPOs) about the possibility of the 'resurgence of the Covid-19 across the province' because of the rampant violations of the SOPs in the markets, after the lockdown was lifted in the province.

The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) expressed concerns on the opening of all sectors in the country during the COVID-19 situation, calling it 'a decision in haste by the government'. A spokesman of the Association said, "We are still under a quarantine period for monitoring the Coronavirus cases after Eid-ul-Azha. In the next few days, we will have a clear picture of the situation after knowing how many new cases have emerged after the Eid."

Meanwhile, to pay tribute to the frontline heroes against the Coronavirus, Punjab Governor Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar laid a foundation for construction of 'Wall of Corona Heroes' in the Governor House. The wall will have the pictures and names of the frontline workers involved in the fight against the virus.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2020