The Punjab government has allowed shopping malls and plazas in the province to open with immediate effect and has issued standard operating procedures (SOPs) in this regard.

According to the notification, food courts/stalls, restaurants, cinemas, and play areas will remain closed. "All shops, markets, mall and businesses which have been specifically exempted are allowed to operate 7 days a week," it added.

In addition malls have been told to ensure the following;

• Hand sanitiser must be available at all entry and exit points
• Shopkeepers/salesmen and customers shall wear face masks
• Staff must be deployed to ensure continuous sanitisation of mall premises
• All visitors should be scanned with a thermal gun before being allowed to enter