The Punjab Primary and Secondary Health Department has imposed 'smart lockdowns' in several areas of Lahore until Feb 19.

A notification dated Feb 8 stated that there has been a constant increase in the positivity percentage and prevalence of Covid-19 in the Punjab during last two weeks which poses a serious and imminent threat to public health.

Restrictions have been imposed at areas in Cantt, Gulberg, Samanabad and Wagah. According to the notification, all markets, shopping malls, restaurants offices shall remain closed in these areas.

There shall be a complete ban on movement of people to and from these areas by public and private transport except for the limited movement of one person per vehicle to and from exempted facilities. There shall also be a complete ban on gatherings of all kinds for social, religious, or any other purpose at any place, public or private throughout these areas, the notification said.

However, grocery stores will be allowed to open from 9am to 7pm seven days a week. On the other hand, milk and meat shops will open from 7am to 7pm seven days a week.