ISLAMABAD: The city managers have decided to wash capital’s major roads, busy areas and markets to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

The operation will begin today (Thursday) and chemicals have been arranged from a factory located in Attock. At present, Islamabad has 16 confirmed coronavirus cases.

According to a statement issued by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) on Wednesday, the campaign will start on Thursday following input from the health ministry.

“All departments [CDA, MCI and ICT administration] will participate in this special operation,” said the statement, adding that the operation would be carried outas a preventive measureto controlthe spread of the virus in the city.

Furthermore, in line with the instructions of the CDA management, the statement said four ventilators were also being made operative in CDA Hospital from Thursday. Doctors and paramedical staff of CDA Hospitalhave been directedto remain alert to cope with the situation.

The city managers requested the residents of the city to cooperate with the authorities so that the spread of the coronavirus could be controlled. They have also been asked to stay at home and avoid unnecessary movements.

The MCI’s water directorate and fire brigade tankers would be used to clean the area.

Published in Dawn, March 26th, 2020