RAWALPINDI: Due to the constant increase in Covid-19 cases, the Punjab government imposed a smart lockdown in 15 localities of Rawalpindi and issued fresh standard operating procedures (SOPs) on Monday.

The localities placed under the smart lockdown are: Dhoke Paracha, Sadiqabad, Afshan Colony, Misrial Road, Lala Zar, Tulsa Road, Gulraiz Colony, Azizabad, Allama Iqbal Colony, Dhoke Chaudharian Street 2 to 7, Mohallah Ameerpura Street 39, 36 and 24, Bahria Town Phase 8, Satellite Town Block A, Khayaban-i-Sir Syed, Lehtrar and Lala Rukh areas.

The government issued a notification under which the 15 localities were placed under a smart lockdown. Under the notification, the controlled entry and exit to the areas have been ordered.

However, despite government’s directives, people were seen ignoring SOPs in markets and bazaars and other public places.

Separately, a fire broke out in a jungle adjacent to Joyland Park located near Ayub National Park on Monday night.

According to rescue services, six firefighting engines were sent to the scene shortly after an emergency call was received.

Till filing of this report, the firefighting operation was in progress. However, there was no report of any casualty.

Published in Dawn, March 16th, 2021