(Karachi) Federal Minister for Planning, Development, Reforms and Special Initiatives Asad Umar has said that the educational institutions will reopen across the country from September 15.

Addressing a press briefing after National Coordination Committee meeting on Thursday, he said that the government will review the situation on September 7 before taking final decision on reopening educational institutions on September 15.

He maintained that restaurants, hotels and tourist spots will also open from August 8 and 10 respectively. He said that the government has also decided to allow marriage halls to open from September 15.

He highlighted that from August 10, public parks, business centres, beauty parlours, theatres and cinemas will also start functioning following proper guidelines and standard operating procedures.

The minister stated that the government has also eased ban on pillion riding while markets will be allowed to open on timings prior to the coronavirus outbreak.

He pointed out that restrictions will remain on physical sports games. He said non-contact sports were also being allowed to resume but without audiences, although tournaments and matches will be permitted.

Umar said that the government has also decided to allow all sorts of public transport to operate across the country.