The Punjab government has ended the province's coronavirus lockdown, allowing all business sectors, excluding marriage halls and educational institutions, to operate from August 10 (today).

A notification issued by the Primary and Secondary Healthcare Department dated August 9, stated that these sectors will be allowed to operate subject to the adoption of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and guidelines for curbing the spread of the virus.

"Religious congregations shall be allowed after approval from the administration concerned and subject to adoption of SOPs/ guidelines. Timings and weekly holidays are hereby reverted to pre-Covid-19 practice subject to adoption of SOPs/ guidelines."

It added that all kinds of public transport had also been allowed to operate subject to adoption of SOPs and guidelines. "This order shall come into force immediately," the notification read.