Punjab CM reviews precautionary measures to control coronavirus

LAHORE (92 News) – Punjab Chief Minister Sardar Usman Buzdar chaired a meeting at his office to review different measures for overcoming the spread of coronavirus in the province on Thursday. The meeting was attended by Corps Commander Lahore Lt Gen Majid Ehsan, GOC Maj Gen Muhammad Aneequr Rehman Malik, DG Rangers Punjab Maj Gen Muhammad Aamir Majeed, Health Minister Dr Yasmin Rashid, Chief Secretary, IG Police, ACS (Home), Commissioner Lahore and high-ranking civil and military officers. The meeting took stock of different matters, including patients' case management and an increase in the number of beds in hospitals. The participants expressed their concern over an increase in the number of coronavirus patients in Punjab, especially Lahore, and agreed to devise a separate strategy for overcoming the pandemic in Lahore city. It was decided to formulate an expert working group for devising a separate model for Lahore and its recommendations will be presented to the national command and control centre for final approval. It was decided that more steps will be taken to stop community transmission by utilizing all-out resources. The participants agreed to further expedite concerted efforts through effective coordination between civil and military organizations. It was also decided to ensure strict compliance of masks' use and any violation of SOPs in markets and commercial areas will not be tolerated. The meeting decided that advance planning will be made keeping in view the likely future situation of coronavirus. It was decided that educational institutions will not be opened in prevailing circumstances. It was also decided to complete all safety measures keeping in view the possibility of floods. Speaking on the occasion, the chief minister said that though the situation is difficult but the government's commitment and passion is stronger than it and the challenge will be overcome through public support and joint collaboration. “Steps will continue for public safety by analyzing ground realities. The people will have to show responsibility in this situation while the government is dealing with the coronavirus challenge in a befitting manner,” he added. He directed that separate policies be devised for Lahore and other cities and warned that no delay should occur in this regard. “More steps will be taken in light of experts’ recommendations,” he added. He asked the irrigation and line departments to complete their arrangements for combating any possible threat of flood. The meeting appreciated the efforts of medical staff and the chief minister thanked the military leadership for extending full cooperation for dealing with the coronavirus pandemic. Corps Commander Lt Gen Majid Ehsan assured the Punjab government of all-possible assistance for overcoming the spread of the coronavirus pandemic as it is a national challenge.