LAHORE: The Punjab Primary and Secondary Healthcare Department on Wednesday imposed a complete ban on indoor dining in all types of hotels, restaurants and cafes of the province.

According to a notification available with Dawn, in exercise of power under the Punjab Infectious Diseases (prevention and control) Act of 2020, Secretary retired Capt Muhammad Usman with the approval of Chief Minister Usman Buzdar banned “indoor dinning in restaurants, cafes, hotels, etc. Only outdoor dining, with adequate spacing between tables and takeaway shall be allowed”.

It further states, the order shall come into force immediately throughout the province unless otherwise amended.

Mr Usman said that outdoor dining would also be allowed after implementing and completely following the coronavirus standard operating procedures issued by the government.

He said the people would have to wear masks, wash their hands, maintain social distance and also implement other SOPs.

He said the restaurants, cafes and hotels were also directed to stop operating after 10pm.

Published in Dawn, December 3rd, 2020