Commercial centres of four sub-sectors being sealed today to remain open.

ISLAMABAD -- The commercial centres of four localities that will be sealed at 7pm today (Wednesday) will remain open despite the surge of Covid-19 cases reported in these areas.

Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Hamza Shafqaat announced earlier this week that six localities - G-6/2, G-6/1, G-7/2, G-10/4 and Phase 7 and 8 of Ghouri Town - would be locked down on Wednesday as the coronavirus was spreading rapidly among residents.

But according to a notification issued by the deputy commissioner's office late Tuesday night, the four sub-sectors will be sealed from June 24. Whereas, the deputy commissioner said teams were visiting Ghouri Townto ascertain the situation and make a proper strategy.

The notification said that these areas have been sealed under the Epidemic Diseases Act 1958, in the public interest and until further orders.

Exemptions to the order include essential services and supplies such as pharmacies, grocery stores and bakeries, people in need of medical aid or treatment, rationing, drinking water supplies and emergency situations. All these exemptions will be regulated by standard operating procedures (SOP) issued by the deputy commissioner's office to limit the spread of the coronavirus.

Commercial areas in the vicinity of the sealed localities will be monitored and could be sealed if violations are observed.

People have been asked to make prior arrangements for rations and medicines, and to reschedule...