THE prime minister has always been against complete lockdown during the ongoing Covid pandemic. This strategy worked very well during the first and second waves of the virus last year. As a result, the country’s economy had a relatively lighter impact compared to several other countries.

That being so, it was surprising that the government has announced extended Eid holidays following the third wave, although the vaccination drive is in full swing. Further, as per the latest statistics, the number of new cases and the fatalities are on the decline in most parts of the country.

The extended holidays will mean closure of factories and other businesses as well as absence of public transport that will severely hamper exports, port operations, banking transactions and other related economic activities.

It will damage the nascent economic recovery and create joblessness among the daily-wage labourers.

In view of the formidable challenges facing the nation, the need is to work extra hours to revive the faltering economy. Malls, non-essential outlets, restaurants, public entertainment places and gatherings can, and should, remain shut, but businesses must remain open to bolster the fragile economy.

I urge the government to review the decision.

Huma Arif
Karachi

Published in Dawn, May 7th, 2021