Back to business - for some sectors in Sindh.

Byline: Hafeez Tunio

KARACHI -- As Sindh enters 'Phase Two' of the lockdown on Monday, implementing the standard operating procedures (SOPs) issued By: the federal government for easing restrictions, certain business sectors would be able to resume operations, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah announced on Friday.

He clarified that there would be some extra restrictions in virus hotspots, while minor exemptions would be given to specific sectors and neighbourhood shops.

The decision came as Sindh reported another 598 coronavirus cases on the day, bringing the province's disease tally to 9,691, while another five patients also passed away.

Stating the Sindh government had already given permission to resume operations to 676 of the province's industrial units, he clarified that industrial units were no longer required to seek the government's approval to resume work, as was decided in the Supreme Court.

However, he added, as per the SOPs issued By: the government, 'industrialists are to give some undertakings as well as details of their workers, including their names, CNIC numbers, mobile numbers and addresses, so that they can be helped in case they contract the virus.'

Outlining entities that were to remain closed as of May 9 instructions, the CM said that shopping malls and plazas, educational institutes, offices, restaurants, hotels, wedding marquees and halls, cinemas, places meant for large gatherings, as well as public processions, congregations of all nature, concerts and sports events were yet to be given clearance.

'This decision was taken By: the federal government, in consultation with provinces,' he clarified.

Disclosing the recommendations made during a meeting with federal minister Asad Umar, he said that it was proposed to allow the construction industry, community markets and retail outlets to resume business, as well as shops in rural areas and residential localities.

He further said that the meeting was advised to instruct the owners of all shops, except pharmacies, to carry out business activities from the time of Fajr prayers till 5pm and keep shops closed on Saturdays and Sundays. It was...