Several markets, shopping malls sealed for violating SOPs in Karachi

KARACHI (92 News) – The district administration sealed several markets, shopping malls and bazars for violating the standard operating procedures (SOPs) in the city. The sealed markets include Zainab Market, Victoria Market, International Market, Madina City Mall and Gull Plaza. A large number of people reached the markets soon after their opening. All the SOPs, including social distancing, were flouted by the customers as well as shopkeepers. The district administration said that they would allow opening of the markets on assurance of following the SOPs. Meanwhile, the Punjab government is considering strict implementation of the SOPs after wide-scale violations were witnessed in the markers. A majority of customers were not wearing masks. Punjab Minister for Industries Mian Aslam Iqbal said that the government could again shut down the markets if the situation persists. He said that traders had promised to ban the entry of children in the markets, but no such thing is being witnessed. Sources said that a report on violation of SOPs in Anarkali, Ichhra Bazar and Hall Road had been sent to the chief minister. On the other hand, traders leader Attique Mir has supported the administration’s action against shopkeepers.