Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar has said that he has issued directions to authorities to take "strict action" against those who violate the standard operating procedures (SOPs).

In a tweet he said that the government had eased the lockdown to "avoid possible hunger and poverty and all associations concerned had also promised to implement the SOPs".

However, the SOPs were not being implemented at most places, he said, adding that "strict action" would be taken in this regard.

Lahore Deputy Commissioner Danish Afzal has directed all assistant commissioners to check the markets in their areas and ensure that SOPs such as wearing masks, installing sanitisers and social distancing are being followed.

He has further directed that strict action be taken against shopkeepers failing to abide by SOPs.