THE Covid-19 pandemic fast making inroads into Pakistan can be turned into an opportunity to get a few important things done in the country. Since the people are in their homes in self-isolation, the government can undertake several tasks of national importance, and make it mandatory for citizens to obey.

The authorities can conduct a population census as well as launch a polio campaign. This will also be an ideal opportunity to locate and identify Covid-19 patients. In return the citizens can be provided with free masks, hand sanitisers and in the case of deserving families, food supplies. In this manner several objectives can be achieved.

These measures will help the state collect valuable data that will help it in the fight against the pandemic.

Fahad Zaib

Karachi

Published in Dawn, April 1st, 2020