ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan government’s central body dealing with the coronavirus pandemic, the National Command and Operation Center (NCOC), will meet today, Tuesday, to revisit last month’s decision to lift several coronavirus restrictions as COVID-19 cases have surged, local media reported, with the health chief saying the next phase of vaccinations would begin from March 10.
On Monday, the NCOC held a meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Planning Asad Umar and discussed rising positivity rates, corresponding actions, and the national vaccine strategy.
“The officials also considered deferring the opening up of cinemas, indoor weddings, and dine-in restaurants, which were expected to reopen from March 15. However, a decision on this has not been announced yet,” APP reported on Monday. “The meeting also reviewed the rising positivity trend prevailing across the country and expressed its concerns over public complacency.”
On Tuesday, heath chief Faisal Sultan wrote on Twitter:
“Pak Covid-19 vaccination, next phase — starting 10 March, inshallah. Beginning with the senior most citizens, who will receive SMS with instructions on their cell phones.”

Pak Covid-19 vaccination, next phase - starting 10 March, inshallah. Beginning with the senior most citizens, who will receive SMS with instructions on their cell phones

— Faisal Sultan (@fslsltn) March 9, 2021

Last month Pakistan announced it would ease a number of coronavirus restrictions, including lifting time limits on commercial activities, allowing indoor dining at restaurants from March 15 and restarting regular five-day classes at schools from March 1.
“Time-limit lifted from commercial activities and amusement parks, condition of 50% work from home removed,” the NCOC had said. “Indoor wedding ceremonies will be allowed from 15th March 21 … Indoor dining allowed from 15th March subject to the review on 10th March.”
The NCOC also allowed cinemas and shrines to reopen from March 15, with coronavirus guidelines in place.
“Wearing of mask, social distancing, smart lockdowns will continue and will be ensured,” the body said.
Last week, the Pakistan Cricket Board announced it had decided to postpone the ongoing Pakistan Super League cricket series after a number of players tested positive for the coronavirus.
Pakistan recorded 1,353 news cases on Tuesday, taking the total number of COVID-19 infections to 593,453, with 13,281 deaths.