Much like the rest of the region, the coronavirus is on the rise in Balochistan. The average daily new cases have remained above 100 in the past few weeks whereas the death toll of the virus continues to rise. The vaccination campaign is trailing, the hospitals are vastly underequipped and testing facilities are rare. The Balochistan government has is taking new measures to curb the further spread of the virus.
The provincial government on 26th April imposed article 144 throughout Balochistan. This means that gatherings of more than five people have been prohibited. Furthermore, the interior ministry directed in another notification that complete lockdowns will now be imposed on Thursdays and Fridays, instead of Saturdays and Sundays. Smart lockdowns will be in place throughout the rest of the week.
The Balochistan government also decided to close all the government decided to close all high and higher secondary academic institutions till Eid. The federal government also announced on April 23 that all private schools and colleges in Balochistan will be closed till Eid. In the meantime, the matric examinations will continue per the schedule with strict compliance to the SOPs.
The government also imposed a ban on gatherings in Koh-i-Murad, the sacred place of worship of the Mahdavia (Zikri) community in Balochistan. Koh-i-Murad is located in Turbat, Kech. Because the sanctuary is visited by hundreds of Zikris during the month of Ramadan, the district authorities decided to close it till May 12 to combat the spread of coronavirus in the city.
Balochistan Chief Minister Jam Kamal Khan expressed concern over the rapid spread of the coronavirus in Balochistan. In a statement on Monday, the chief minister said that the new wave of the virus is very dangerous. “The third wave of coronavirus has engulfed the whole world and the situation is worsening in Balochistan as the people are not taking the disease seriously,” he said.
The chief minister said that an India-like situation could not be ruled out because the public does not comply with the SOPs. He said that the current situation is critical and should not be taken lightly. If the public does not follow the precautions, the government will take drastic measures, including imposing a complete lockdown, he said.
Jam Kamal directed the commissioners and deputy commissioners to ensure the implementation of the SOPs and asked them to take strict actions against people who do not wear face masks and ensure social distancing.