NCOC announces new restrictions

ISLAMABAD: National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) announced new measures to control COVID-19 transmission.

Restrictions had been imposed on schools, large gatherings and other sectors in cities with an over 10 per cent positivity rate. 

The NCOC issued new guidelines after taking a detailed review of the current disease situation in the country and corresponding protocols. 

It stated in a notice, “After a deliberate and consultative process with federating units, the forum agreed on the implementation of undermentioned non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPSIs)”.

NCOC asserted adding these measures would be implemented from January 20-31, and a review would be done on January 27.

The decisions were taken during an NCOC session held in Islamabad with Asad Umar, Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives. The forum declared that the recent restrictions on the wedding sector would remain effective till February 15.

All indoor gatherings like weddings had been banned, while outdoor gatherings would be allowed with a maximum limit of 300 individuals (fully vaccinated). 

There will be an absolute ban on indoor dining. Nevertheless, outdoor dining for fully vaccinated citizens and takeaway service would be allowed.

Indoor Gyms at 50 per cent capacity for fully vaccinated individuals would be allowed. Cinemas would be allowed to open at 50 per cent capacity for fully vaccinated individuals only. Shrines would be allowed to open at 50 per cent capacity for fully vaccinated individuals only.

The schools will be allowed to open with 50 per cent attendance (staggered days) for pupils below the age of 12 years. For pupils (fully vaccinated) over 12 years, the NCOC had recommended 100% attendance.