TAXILA: The administration in Attock has placed more restrictions on the entry points of the district from Khyber Pakhtunhwa as a part of precautions against the spread of coronavirus.

Police and other law enforcement agencies tightened movement of vehicles on G.T. Road in Hassanabdal, Attock Bridge and at the entry points of the Attock city at Teen Mella Chowk. Officials of the local administration deployed at pickets have been authorised to take action against pillion riding and movement of public transport.

Deputy Commissioner Ali Anan Qammar visited various points to ensure implementation of Section 144 and turned back all vehicles entering the Punjab province from KP as well as from Rawalpindi/Islamabad into Attock.

He instructed law enforcement agencies personnel at the pickets to restrict unnecessary public movement. He also directed the officials to take action against those involved in pillion riding.

Talking to newsmen, the deputy commissioner said all points of entry into the district were sealed on Friday after people were found moving around without a genuine reason.

“The authorities have decided to go strict on lockdown violators after many residents ignored government requests to stay indoors,” he said. Responding a question, he said exemption was given to those who were facing any kind of emergency such as medical attention.

People coming from abroad, especially pilgrims from Iran, have been tested for the virus and those allowed to go home were also being monitored. He said due to effective efforts of the district administration and health authorities, there was no positive case of coronavirus in the district.

“The district administration adopted exclusive and timely precautionary measures to contain the spread of Covid-19,” Mr Qammar said.

He said all six assistant commissioners had been directed to visit the pickets to ensure implementation of the government directions regarding lockdown and implementation of Section 144. Responding another question, the DC said the district had enough stock of food items for the next 15 days and the supply was also continuing without any hurdle.

Published in Dawn, April 4th, 2020