Punjab health department has imposed smart lockdowns in different areas of Multan, Lahore, Rawalpindi, Bhakkar, Bahawalpur and Sargodha that were identified as "hotspots" of the virus.

According to the notifications issued by the health department, the lockdowns will remain in place until November 28.

There will be "controlled entry and exit" in areas where lockdowns are being imposed, the notifications said.

Other restrictions include:

• closure of markets, shopping malls, offices and restaurants

• ban on movement through public or private transport "except for limited movement of one person per vehicle to and from the exempted facilities"

• ban on gatherings of all kinds

Grocery stores, pharmacies, bakeries, dairy shops etc will be allowed to remain open.