ISLAMABAD: Minister for Planning Asad Umar has emphasised the need for compliance of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) including use of face masks to avoid the spread of Covid-19.

He was chairing a meeting of National Command and Operation Center in Islamabad on Tuesday.

Asad Umar said risk mitigation is important to check the second wave of corona in the country.

The Minister said we as a nation and all stakeholders have taken rights steps which helped us in saving lives and contain disease spread.

He said the people's proactive response have been the key in our success against Covid-19.  He said the people of Pakistan have shown great responsibility to not only protect themselves but following guidelines they have ensured the safety and well-being of others.

Asad Umar paid great tributes to Media for their effective messaging for behavior change and help in reaching out to masses. He said the people and the media are two important pillars which made the entire effort a success.

The meeting was informed that 3497 smart lockdowns have been imposed in 103 districts across the country.  The forum was informed that fifty two percent Covid test are being done due to proactive strategy of Trace, Test and Quarantine.

The Chief Secretary Sindh informed the meeting that they are monitoring education and marriage halls to ensure compliance of health guidelines.

The Chief Secretary Khyber Pakhtunkhwa said that the provincial government has taken administrative measures against certain restaurants and marriage halls for violations of Covid protocols.

The Chief Secretary Balochistan said that there is improvement in Covid situation in the province due to implementation of Trace, Test and Quarantine strategy.