ISLAMABAD: The National Command and Operations Centre (NCOC) on Saturday decided to seek the help of citizens for SOPs' compliance to curb the resurgence of Covid-19 cases in the country. Federal Minister for Planning Asad Umar who is also heading the NCOC, said the decision was taken in view of the second wave of pandemic and continued violations of SOPs.

The NCOC has launched a WhatsApp number for registration of Covid-19 related violations by the public. Umar said citizens should report violations, such as no masks being worn in public places or lack of social distancing measures, on a WhatsApp number established by the NCOC. The number is 0335-3336262.

A day ago, the NCOC noted the spread of virus and increased positive ratio in 11 major cities of Pakistan. The national body has made it mandatory to wear face masks in public places including markets, shopping malls, while using public transport and at restaurants.

Special Assistant to the PM on Health Dr Faisal Sultan, in a news conference on Tuesday, stated that with the beginning of second wave of Covid-19, strict restrictions would need to be imposed again and a plan would also be chalked out soon. He added that the restrictions would be tightened in the cities where the positive ratio of the virus was high. The PM's aide said new recommendations would be presented soon in consultation in all the provinces.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2020