Amid rising coronavirus cases, the Punjab government has imposed a smart lockdown in 55 areas of Lahore.

According to a notification issued by the provincial health department, the areas have been placed under lockdown with "immediate effect" till Dec 21.

During the lockdown, all markets, shopping malls, restaurants and offices will remain closed. In addition, there will be a complete ban on any type of gathering and movement to and from the areas. Grocery stores, vegetable shops, tandoors and petrol pumps will remain open from 9am to 7pm while milk and meat shops will be allowed to open from 7am to 7pm on all days of the week.

All hospitals, clinics, laboratories and bakeries will remain open 24 hours a day, according to the notification.