What's the government response timeline for Pakistan?

All passengers and flight crew shall be quarantined for 24 hours at a location decided by the authorities. After 24 hours, a swab sample shall be collected for the test at the designated facility. Anyone with a positive test result shall be retained at the quarantine or other relevant location. Those with negative test result shall be allowed to leave with strict instructions and guidance for home quarantine. Data of all the passengers and flight crew with their mobile numbers will be kept for record and further follow up. https://www.indiatoday.in/world/story/pakistan-coronavirus-airports-scanning-screening-china-outbreak-1639910-2020-01-24 https://www.geo.tv/latest/281196-pakistan-toughens-protocols-for-coronavirus-screening-at-airports

Pakistan suspended flights from China on January 31 till February 2, a day after the World Health Organisation declared the outbreak of the virus as a global health emergency. The flights were allowed on 3 Feb, a day after Pakistan said it has received special medical kits from China to detect the coronavirus cases. Source: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/world/pakistan-suspends-flights-to-coronavirus-hit-china-till-march-15/article30901498.ece

Flights were allowed from 3 Feb, a day after Pakistan said it has received special medical kits from China to detect the coronavirus cases. Source: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/world/pakistan-suspends-flights-to-coronavirus-hit-china-till-march-15/article30901498.ece

On 12th February, 2020 Pakistan announced it's National Action Plan to fight against Corona virus that included mass media campaigns. SOURCE: https://www.nih.org.pk/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/COVID-19-NAP-V2-13-March-2020.pdf?__cf_chl_jschl_tk__=11260323a07757eb9f6bf5bf7603eb4d125a2a2b-1586071691-0-AZ_6ILZR3SkQuORm7NS2-Hm5KCmgJUNDtAFxAYvvd1HsdY4jD1c_dOm8G39d7bfU6rGtpHp1aS4PvHEThiBp1_R-6yBsHCGKVSS6zSlRYccEu6trt7_VGj30aLOirzPEzQh2spvsHqCVRxaiYNVkc98F8Ex-z4SpQl6VDlDOMcslU6AIoDFsGv89CU7InPR98sOiX6eaFEA5sl5ldCWGeu-0K6BaDDaE_ppGYHOl--do1p7BdP8ueqJV9SAh0VROJaQcPy3pKlqFInFs0QIM8jYAj3tu5sUPmpCZ_Zj2vBNrukMqyT_NkXDDFsdoBUVkisLbjzjmYxcZZhJ3yu_nEu1pvKkBNi-GLEW_gDb27QlN SOURCE: https://www.phc.org.pk/downloads/Download.pdf

On 23 Feb, Pakistan banned all flights to China and shut its borders with Iran. Sources: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/world/pakistan-suspends-flights-to-coronavirus-hit-china-till-march-15/article30901498.ece On 1 March, it sealed its border with Afghanistan. https://www.geo.tv/latest/278438-pakistan-opens-border-with-afghanistan-despite-coronavirus-fears On 13 March, Pakistan closed all it's land borders, but international flights were still operating out of Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad airports. Source: https://skift.com/2020/03/13/pakistan-shuts-borders-amid-coronavirus-outbreak/

1: https://tribune.com.pk/story/2164104/1-pakistan-cobbles-together-action-plan-viral-outbreak/ 2: https://www.nih.org.pk/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/COVID-19-NAP-V2-13-March-2020.pdf

Schools in Sindh (including Karachi) and Baluchistan province (bordering Iran) are ordered to close. All private and government education institutions in Sindh remained closed on February 27 and February 28. The government of Pakistan’s Sindh province then decided to extend closure of educational institutions, both public and private, across the province till March 13. https://www.reuters.com/article/us-china-health-pakistan/pakistan-shuts-schools-suspends-iran-flights-to-curb-coronavirus-spread-idUSKCN20L179 https://www.samaa.tv/news/pakistan/2020/02/all-sindh-educational-institutions-to-remain-closed-on-thursday-friday/ https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/pakistan/coronavirus-sindh-schools-colleges-closed-until-march-13-1.70118164

All educational establishments closed for three weeks until April 5th, including public and private schools and universities as well as vocational institutions and madaris. https://skift.com/2020/03/13/pakistan-shuts-borders-amid-coronavirus-outbreak/ On 2 April, the lockdown was extended till 14 April and schools remained closed. https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/pakistan/covid-19-pakistan-extends-lockdown-until-april-14-1.70768969

Ban on public events was imposed idefinitely on 23 March.. https://www.geo.tv/latest/277199-government-decides-to-cancel-pakistan-day-parade-amid-coronavirus-fears Further, on 23 March, all provincial governments ordered a complete or partial lockdown. https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/325761/pakistan-army-deploys-to-enforce-countrywide-lockdown-measures-over-covid-19-as-of-march-23-update-9

Ban on public events including public gatherings, events, wedding halls, cinemas, etc., including the Pakistan Day Parade on March 23rd was announced. Source: https://www.geo.tv/latest/277199-government-decides-to-cancel-pakistan-day-parade-amid-coronavirus-fears Further, on 23 March, all provincial governments ordered a complete or partial lockdown. https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/325761/pakistan-army-deploys-to-enforce-countrywide-lockdown-measures-over-covid-19-as-of-march-23-update-9

Further to previous measures effecting shutting down of its land borders, Pakistan has suspended all international flights for two weeks, starting 21 March. Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/mar/21/pakistan-suspends-international-flights-for-two-weeks-to-stem-covid-19-spread This suspension was subsequently revised twice, with the latest announcement on 18 April confirming that Pakistan has suspended its flight operation till April 30. Source: https://nation.com.pk/18-Apr-2020/coronavirus-pakistan-suspends-flight-operations-till-april-30

On 24 March, the government announced a lockdown under which all offices except for some essential departments were closed. https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/pakistan-stays-under-lockdown-amid-coronavirus-outbreak/1777394 https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/633749-lockdown-on-army-deployed

Public transport closure took effect on 24 March as a part of the lockdown measures announced by the government. https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/pakistan-stays-under-lockdown-amid-coronavirus-outbreak/1777394 On 2 April, the lockdown was extended till 14 April.

On 23 March, all provincial governments ordered a complete or partial lockdown. Residents were reportedly allowed to leave their homes to buy groceries and medicines and visit health facilities. https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/325761/pakistan-army-deploys-to-enforce-countrywide-lockdown-measures-over-covid-19-as-of-march-23-update-9 The lockdown was extended till May 9 on 25 April. https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/336186/pakistan-nationwide-lockdown-extended-through-may-9-update-20

On 24 March, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government declared a public holiday across the province from March 24, until March 28. Authorities have also suspended intra-district transport during this period, in addition to an earlier suspension on inter-district transport. Source: https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/326226/pakistan-khyber-pakhtunkhwa-government-declares-public-holiday-from-march-24-28-update-10

On 25 March, orders were given to improve sampling arrangements in Sindh province, upon which 18 vehicles of the Indus Hospital were dedicated for collecting samples from homes (as per directives by the Chief Minister). (source: https://tribune.com.pk/story/2183538/1-homecoming-last-640-pilgrims-cleared-infection-return-home-sukkur/)

Effective Thursday, March 26, all domestic passenger flights are suspended nationwide. https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/326321/pakistan-domestic-passenger-flights-halted-amid-covid-19-pandemic-effective-march-26-update-11 On April 18, the Pakistani government announced that the ban on domestic and international flights, which was originally extended through April 21, will continue until April 30. Source: https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/333871/pakistan-authorities-announce-flight-ban-extension-through-april-30-update-19

"The provision of financial assistance among the 12 million deserving families under the Ehsaas Emergency Cash Programme is scheduled to start Thursday (April 9) as part of the federal government's initiative to financially support the downtrodden segments of the society with a payment of Rs 12,000 to each deserving family." https://www.brecorder.com/2020/04/08/587465/ehsaas-programme-12m-families-to-get-rs12000-each-from-tomorrow/

Special Assistant to PM Dr. Zafar Mirza Said "We've only been testing visibly symptomatic patients thus far. It is possible that we will start testing asymptomatic people going forward provided they came in contact with those who have already tested positive". Link: https://www.dawn.com/news/1548375

Quote: Prime Minister Imran Khan said Tuesday the current lockdown in Pakistan to contain the coronavirus pandemic was to continue for another two weeks at schools and public places Link: https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/644354-pm-imran-extends-pakistan-lockdown-by-two-weeks

Quote: Cabinet approves lockdown extension till April 30. Air travel, public transport, public gatherings, wedding halls, cinemas and public places will remain close due to the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. SOURCE: https://www.pakistantoday.com.pk/2020/04/14/cabinet-approves-lockdown-extension-strict-action-hoarders/

The government announced extension of the lockdown but allowing certain industries, such as construction, to be opened effectively starting 15 March. The prime minister said the decision was made "with the consent of all the provincial chief secretaries and chief ministers" and that there was an 89% consensus on which industries to reopen. After the 18th Amendment, the provinces were given autonomy to make their own decisions in such matters, he noted. https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/644354-pm-imran-extends-pakistan-lockdown-by-two-weeks

Quote: "As per the decision of the Government of Pakistan, the suspension of international and domestic flight operations as effected earlier has been extended up to Thursday, April 30, 2020, at 2359 hours PST," CAA said. Link: https://nation.com.pk/18-Apr-2020/coronavirus-pakistan-suspends-flight-operations-till-april-30 However, it will not be considered as total border closure because "special flights" (on request of countries) are scheduled (transporting citizens to their respective countries). Link: https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/644129-japan-thanks-pakistan-over-return-of-nationals Quote: Cabinet approves lockdown extension till April 30 (which includes Air travel restrictions from earlier measures) https://www.pakistantoday.com.pk/2020/04/14/cabinet-approves-lockdown-extension-strict-action-hoarders/

SBP said the rate cut would complement other measures recently taken by the SBP to support the economy, including concessional financing to companies that do not lay off workers, one-year extension in principal payments, doubling of the period for rescheduling of loans from 90 to 180 days, and concessional financing for hospitals and medical centres incurring expenses to combat the coronavirus pandemic. https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/645327-state-bank-delivers-200bps-surprise-rate-cut-to-counter-covid-19-impact

Government of Pakistan Coronavirus Website (Link): http://covid.gov.pk/ A comprehensive public campaign about COVID-19 via this website

As above. No new changes announced.

As above. No new changes announced.

Shopping malls, markets, offices and factories, ministries are open. Dozens of people are sitting and discussing matters on the TV channels, media houses are open https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/pakistan-to-keep-mosques-open-during-ramadan-626033

Everything closed except for mosques, which have defied the government's orders and demanded to be open for Ramadan (24th April to 23rd May). There are prayers 5 times a day for an unlimited number of people as long as social distancing rules can be put into place (see rules set out below). Consequently there are numerous daily large gatherings. Complete closure in Sindh https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/pakistan-to-keep-mosques-open-during-ramadan-626033 https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-ramadan-pakistan/pakistans-sindh-province-bans-prayer-at-mosques-during-ramadan-idUSKCN226166 GUIDELINES FOR MOSQUES: Under the guidelines, people above the age of 50, minors and those suffering from “flu” will not be allowed to enter mosques. Ramadan traveeh prayers should not be conducted on roads, footpaths or anywhere else other than in mosques, and mosque floors will be washed with chlorine disinfectant. Prayer mats will also be disinfected with a chlorine mixture, and congregational rows will be formed with a six-foot distance between worshipers. However, people will be encouraged to offer traveeh prayers at home. https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/23/world/asia/pakistan-coronavirus-ramadan.html OTHERWISE: Ban on all other public events was imposed idefinitely on 23 March. https://www.geo.tv/latest/277199-government-decides-to-cancel-pakistan-day-parade-amid-coronavirus-fears Further, on 23 March, all provincial governments ordered a complete or partial lockdown. https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/325761/pakistan-army-deploys-to-enforce-countrywide-lockdown-measures-over-covid-19-as-of-march-23-update-9 MORE ON SINDH: Despite the lockdown being extended to May 9, prayer congregations over Ramadan have also been permitted, except in the province of Sindh, which has been identified as high-risk for the spread of the virus. https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/336186/pakistan-nationwide-lockdown-extended-through-may-9-update-20

On 24th April, it was announced by the federal government that the lockdown would be extended until 9 May. Source: https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/pakistan/pakistan-extends-lock-down-for-15-days-until-may-9-1.1587738995318

On 24th April, it was announced by the federal government that the lockdown would be extended until 9 May. Source: https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/pakistan/pakistan-extends-lock-down-for-15-days-until-may-9-1.1587738995318

On 24th April, it was announced by the federal government that the lockdown would be extended until 9 May. Source: https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/pakistan/pakistan-extends-lock-down-for-15-days-until-may-9-1.1587738995318

On 24th April, it was announced by the federal government that the lockdown would be extended until 9 May. Source: https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/pakistan/pakistan-extends-lock-down-for-15-days-until-may-9-1.1587738995318

As above. No new changes announced.

On 27 April, Sindh government approves rent relief (discounted rent) for tenants; however, no numbers were mentioned. Meanwhile, other provincial chief ministers are urging landlords to waive rents, without government allocations of funds for rent relief. https://nation.com.pk/28-Apr-2020/sindh-cabinet-approves-covid-19-emergency-relief-ordinance

Ministry of Human Rights and Pakistan Baitul Mal distributed 250 ration bags among transgenders in Islamabad. Link: https://twitter.com/shireenmazari1/status/1255413674090606598

This new published in Arab News on 3rd May say "Rapid response and surveillance teams are working at the district level to track suspects and collect their samples for testing in close coordination with their respective provincial governments and the National Institute of Health in Islamabad. Link: https://www.arabnews.pk/node/1669026/pakistan

Public Transport remained closed Balochistan since 19th May. Link: https://www.dawn.com/news/1558185/balochistan-not-to-allow-public-transport-resumptionPublic transport was closed in Azad Jammu and Kashmir only in whole country since 17th May, restricting interprovincial and local movement.But on 4th June, AJK also announced to easing lock down restrictions for public transport. link https://www.zameen.com/news/ajk-cabinet-eases-lockdown-restrictions-businesses-public-transport.html

A meeting held under PM on 7th May decided to close all educational institutions till 15th July. https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/pakistan-announces-to-ease-lockdown-from-may-9/1832873

A meeting of National Coordination Committee held under PM on 7th May which announced to easing lock down from 9th May.The new developments to ease the coronavirus lockdown included opening up small, neighbourhood markets, hardware stores, and outpatient departments (OPDs) at the hospitals"All shops will open early morning but businesses will remain closed for two days in a week

Ban on international flights extended to May 31. Source: https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/pakistan/covid-19-pakistan-extends-ban-on-international-flight-till-may-31-while-domestic-operations-resumed-1.71541934

There's an exception for repatriated citizens: "All Pakistani passengers will be tested for COVID-19 soon after landing in the country, says a senior government official" This includes asymptomatic passengers as well. Source: https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/pakistan/covid-19-pakistani-relaxes-quarantine-rules-for-passengers-arriving-on-special-flights-1.71438016

Domestic flights resumed 16th May with limited load factors are being allowed from five major airports, including Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar and Quetta, according to a circular published on Twitter by the Aviation Division of Pakistan. Aircraft must be disinfected before boarding, there must be at least one vacant seat between passengers, and it is compulsory to wear masks and use hand sanitiser. No food and beverages will be allowed during flights. In addition, airlines are required to maintain “emergency PPE [personal protective equipment]” in the aircraft to deal with in-flight health emergencies, while all passengers must fill out a health declaration form before boarding. https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/pakistan/covid-19-pakistan-extends-ban-on-international-flight-till-may-31-while-domestic-operations-resumed-1.71541934 https://www.flightglobal.com/air-transport/air-travel-restart-differs-in-india-and-pakistan/138416.article

Though the lock down eased down. Public transports have been opened in the most parts of the country .But Azad Jamu and Kashmir imposed again lock down. Link: https://www.dawn.com/news/1557813/ajk-govt-suspends-relaxations-in-lockdown-following-surge-in-covid-19-cases

Though lock down has been eased down but AJK government again introduced complete lock down.The AJK prime minister also announced that interprovincial and intra-AJK transport will continue to remain suspended after he held a meeting with the transporters earlier in the day. https://www.dawn.com/news/1557813/ajk-govt-suspends-relaxations-in-lockdown-following-surge-in-covid-19-cases

A meeting of National Coordination Committee held under PM on 7th May which announced to easing lock down from 9th May.The new developments to ease the coronavirus lockdown included opening up small, neighbourhood markets, hardware stores, and outpatient departments (OPDs) at the hospitals"All shops will open early morning but businesses will remain closed for two days in a week

Everything closed except for mosques, which have defied the government's orders and demanded to be open for Ramadan (24th April to 23rd May). There are prayers 5 times a day for an unlimited number of people as long as social distancing rules can be put into place (see rules set out below). Consequently there are numerous daily large gatherings. Complete closure in Sindh https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/pakistan-to-keep-mosques-open-during-ramadan-626033 https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-ramadan-pakistan/pakistans-sindh-province-bans-prayer-at-mosques-during-ramadan-idUSKCN226166 GUIDELINES FOR MOSQUES: Under the guidelines, people above the age of 50, minors and those suffering from “flu” will not be allowed to enter mosques. Ramadan traveeh prayers should not be conducted on roads, footpaths or anywhere else other than in mosques, and mosque floors will be washed with chlorine disinfectant. Prayer mats will also be disinfected with a chlorine mixture, and congregational rows will be formed with a six-foot distance between worshipers. However, people will be encouraged to offer traveeh prayers at home. https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/23/world/asia/pakistan-coronavirus-ramadan.html OTHERWISE: Ban on all other public events was imposed idefinitely on 23 March. https://www.geo.tv/latest/277199-government-decides-to-cancel-pakistan-day-parade-amid-coronavirus-fears Further, on 23 March, all provincial governments ordered a complete or partial lockdown. https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/325761/pakistan-army-deploys-to-enforce-countrywide-lockdown-measures-over-covid-19-as-of-march-23-update-9 MORE ON SINDH: Despite the lockdown being extended to May 9, prayer congregations over Ramadan have also been permitted, except in the province of Sindh, which has been identified as high-risk for the spread of the virus. https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/336186/pakistan-nationwide-lockdown-extended-through-may-9-update-20

lockdowns ease for most of Pakistan, but remain for Azad Jammu and Kashmir remaining under lockdown and stay at home orders. https://abcnews.go.com/Health/wireStory/latest-india-starts-bringing-back-stranded-citizens-70572806

http://covid.gov.pk/intl_travellers/current_policiesI http://covid.gov.pk/guidelines/pdf/20200528_Gudelines%20for%20domestic%20air%20travel_02.pdf Inbound International Passenger Flights A limited number of flights are being operated to ensure the safe return of our nationals and the safety of passengers traveling to and from Pakistan. Please note that the number and origin of these flights are being constantly reviewed to ensure the timely return of our nationals, whilst ensuring that our capacity to conduct COVID testing and manage these passengers in quarantine facilities is not exceeded. The government is working tirelessly to increase these capacities, and as this capacity continues to grow our ability of passenger intake will also rise. Scheduled flights for the current week can be viewed here . Please note that these are subject to change depending on the evolving situation. Upon arrival in Pakistan, all passengers and crew will be subjected to a state-monitored quarantine. Testing will be conducted as soon as possible after arrival, usually before 24 hours. Testing results are returned within a 12-24 hours window. Please note that these might be delayed in some cases due to heavy load of inbound passenger traffic. The quarantine can be extended based on the result of the passenger’s COVID-19 test, or upon the discretion of governmental health authorities considering the overall test results of the flight. Passengers who are sent home after a negative test will be advised compulsory self-isolation to complete a 14-day period. Low risk and asymptomatic positive test results may also be sent home for self-isolation upon the discretion of provincial health authorities subject to review of isolation capabilities at home. The transportation to the quarantine location shall be arranged by the concerned authorities. No meet and greet shall be allowed at the airport. Inbound passengers will be allowed a preference between two modes of quarantine, government quarantine centers or government regulated hotel/facility. Government quarantine centers will be free of cost. Passengers will be responsible for all expenses arising from their stay if they choose to stay in a government regulated hotel/facility. Passengers will not be able to switch facilities once their quarantine begins unless deemed necessary by the authorities. While the government will try its best to accommodate passengers according to their preferences, paid facilities are limited and cannot be guaranteed. The authorities on the ground will have the final say on where passengers are quarantined. Detailed SOPs can be found here Inbound International Private Flights Limited international private flights are currently allowed by special permission. Upper limit on passengers; and date and time of arrival will be determined by the Civil Aviation Authority and not by the flight operator. Please contact Civil Aviation Authority for information. Passengers on inbound international private flights will be subject to the same testing and quarantine procedures as inbound international passenger flights. Detailed SOPs can be found here Outbound International Passenger/Charter/Private Flights Limited outbound passenger/charter/private flights are currently allowed. Any country that wants to repatriate its own nationals from Pakistan can do on special flights with Civil Aviation Authority permission. PIA is also continuing limited outbound flights. Please contact Civil Aviation Authority for information.

https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19 FISCAL A relief package worth PKR 1.2 trillion has been announced by the federal government on March 24, 2020. Key measures include: (i) elimination of import duties on emergency health equipment; (ii) relief to daily wage workers including PKR 75 billion of approved cash disbursements to 6.2 million workers, (iii) cash transfers to low-income families (PKR 150 billion), (iv) accelerated tax refunds to the export industry (PKR 100 billion), and (v) financial support to SMEs and the agriculture sector (PKR 100 billion) in the form of relief on electricity bill payments, bank lending support, as well as subsidies and tax incentives. The economic package also earmarks resources for an accelerated procurement of wheat (PKR 280 billion), financial support to utility stores (PKR 50 billion), relief in fuel prices (PKR 70 billion), support for health and food supplies (PKR 15 billion), electricity bill payments relief (PKR 110 billion), an emergency contingency fund (PKR 100 billion), and a transfer to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) for the purchase of necessary equipment to deal with the pandemic (PKR 25 billion). In addition, the authorities have launched a program for the construction sector to address the acute employment needs generated by the lockdowns, which include a special tax regime and no wealth declaration for projects launched during a short window until the end of 2020. Provincial governments have also announced fiscal measures, broadly consisting of cash grants to the low-income households, tax relief and additional health spending that includes increased compensation to healthcare workers. The government of Punjab announced a tax relief package of PKR 18 billion and a cash grants program of PKR 1.5 billion, while the government of Sindh has announced a cash grant and ration distribution program of PKR 1.5 billion for the low-income households.

https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19 The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has responded to the crisis by cutting the policy rate by a cumulative 525 basis points to 8.0 percent in the span of two months. The SBP has expanded the scope of existing refinancing facilities and introduced three new ones that aim at: (i) supporting hospitals and medical centers to purchase equipment to detect, contain, and treat COVID-19, (ii) stimulating investment in new manufacturing plants and machinery, as well as modernization and expansion of existing projects, and (iii) incentivizing businesses to avoid laying off their workers during the pandemic. Moreover, the SBP introduced temporary regulatory measures to maintain banking system soundness and sustain economic activity. These include: (i) reducing the capital conservation buffer by 100 basis points to 1.5 percent; (ii) increase the regulatory limit on extension of credit to SMEs by 44 percent to PRs 180 million ; (iii) relaxation of the debt burden ratio for consumer loans from 50 percent to 60 percent; (iv) allowing banks to defer clients’ payment of principal on loan obligations by one year; (v) relaxation of regulatory criteria for restructured loans for borrowers who require relief beyond the extension of principal repayment for one year; and (vi) suspension of bank dividends for the first two quarters of 2020 to shore up capital.

https://www.dawn.com/news/1538338 A patient suspecting they are manifesting symptoms of coronavirus should visit a government designated public or private hospital. According to National Institute of Health (NIH) official Dr Mumtaz Ali Khan, all district headquarter hospitals and tertiary care hospitals across the country are equipped to collect samples for coronavirus.

https://www.nih.org.pk/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/COVID-19-SOPs-for-Contact-Tracing.pdf?__cf_chl_jschl_tk__=3465687e6b69746734cfa794d78a44b37a2d4793-1590757611-0-ARfxAluwMi6oKwLr8kdGHZaofvd8mrQSXppsJRUq5uykZMOONKxJ51ETK5NLSzJRqWwZMVHSEEVCG5NdCOVuOTsvH-oAjLIn8Isgr2ywOFWRpkYX6Upzr9GErpI1bmZ0gpyM8GzLx99hEoHKr7BDtNr4mI9HnzoxUpRg_6FRmTNMlDh6Jip-lFORAdv1ooUF8bVaxNV7gNk3OWdBB9JwgGZxgWgAeCPnxgwUzHjpOsgizgZcn1BxD9dS4YSAZbEqdhwETXRFRzIjUTGQMOqrr0bYPweHrqvzvTZzoz98rJ6Zm7fE8NBBJhtC5UXCRGGnUf1dOJ9RLy98tZM6UPu042R_hn1G0flwiB2NOVZ7VZUo National Institute of Health - Pakistan (Field Epidemiology & Disease Surveillance Division) P h o n e : ( 9 2 - 0 5 1 ) 9 2 5 5 2 3 7 F a x : ( 9 2 - 0 5 1 ) 9 2 5 5 0 9 9 N a t i o n a l F o c a l P o i n t f o r I H R SOPs for Contact Tracing Definition of Contact: A contact is a person who experienced any one of the following exposures during the 2 days before and the 14 days after the onset of symptoms of a probable or confirmed case: 1. Face-to-face contact with a probable or confirmed case within 1 meter and for more than 15 minutes; 2. Direct physical contact with a probable or confirmed case; 3. Direct care for a patient with probable or confirmed COVID-19 disease without using proper personal protective equipment Identification of contacts: All persons categorized as a contact of confirmed cases should be followed-up, and monitored for the development of symptoms for 14 days after the last exposure to the case (i.e. the maximum incubation period). Contacts of suspected cases should also be considered for contact management if there is likely to be a delay in confirming or excluding COVID-19 infection in the suspected case, such as delayed testing. Close contact definition: A close contact is defined as requiring greater than 15 minutes face-to-face contact with a symptomatic confirmed case in any setting, or the sharing of a closed space with a symptomatic confirmed case for a prolonged period (e.g. more than 2 hours). For the purposes of surveillance, a close contact includes a person meeting any of the following criteria: • Living in the same household or household-like setting (e.g. in a boarding school or hostel). • Direct contact with the body fluids or laboratory specimens of a case without recommended PPE. • A person who spent 2 hours or longer in the same room (such as a GP or ED waiting room). • A person in the same hospital room when an aerosol generating procedure is undertaken on the case, without recommended PPE. • Face-to-face contact for more than 15 minutes with the case in any other setting not listed above. Contact needs to have occurred within the period extending from the day of onset of symptoms in the case until the case is classified as no longer infectious by the treating team (usually 24 hours after the resolution of symptoms). Casual contact definition: Casual contact is defined as any person having less than 15 minutes face-to-face contact with a symptomatic confirmed case in any setting, or sharing a closed space with a symptomatic confirmed case for less than 2 hours. This will include healthcare workers, other patients, or visitors who were in the same closed healthcare space as a case, but for shorter periods than those required for a close contact. Other closed settings might include schools or offices. Note that healthcare workers and other contacts who have taken recommended infection control precautions, including the use of full PPE, while caring for a symptomatic confirmed COVID-19 case are not considered to be close contacts. However, these people should be advised to self-monitor and if they develop symptoms consistent with COVID-19 infection they should isolate themselves and notify their public health unit or staff health unit so they can be tested and managed as a suspected COVID-19 case. Other casual contacts may include: • Extended family groups, e.g. in an Aboriginal community. • Aircraft passengers who were seated in the same row as the case, or in the two rows in front or two rows behind a symptomatic confirmed COVID-19 case. Contact tracing of people who may have had close contact on long bus or train trips should also be attempted where possible, using similar seating/proximity criteria. • All crew-members on an aircraft who worked in the same cabin area as a symptomatic confirmed case of COVID-19. If a crew member is the symptomatic COVID-19 case, contact tracing efforts should concentrate on passengers seated in the area where the crew member was working during the flight and all of the other members of the crew. Where resources permit, more active contact tracing may be extended to other persons who have had casual contact (as defined above), particularly in school, office, or other closed settings. In these circumstances, the size of the room/space and degree of separation of the case from others should be considered in identifying contacts. Contact assessment: All persons identified as having had contact with a symptomatic confirmed case should be assessed to see if they should be classified as a close contact and have demographic and epidemiological data collected. Information on close contacts should be managed according to jurisdictional requirements. Identification and assessment of the contacts of suspected cases may be deferred pending the results of initial laboratory testing. Close contact testing: Routine laboratory screening for COVID-19 infection is not recommended for asymptomatic contacts. Procedure: • RRT team shall reach the locality where case reports as per SOPs. • Team member shall conduct risk assessment of the area and identify the close contacts as per plan • The team shall take the sample from the contacts available at the site as per SOPs • The detailed information about contacts which are not present at the area of site must be informed to NIH and the respective agencies. • The team shall coordinate with local civil authorities about the risk assessment and advice • PHEOC team shall facilitate the respective agencies and organization where relevant contacts may be living or residing Records: 1. Contact Tracing Forms 2. Contact information forms 3. Sample referral forms 4. PHEOC contract management registers/forms (if any)

People are recommended to stay at home in whole country except Azad Jammu and Kashmir where government reimposed lock down on 17th May due to increase in cases.So it is required with exception and targeted as well.. Link: https://www.dawn.com/news/1557813

The NCOC recommended that the educational institutions be closed till August as the summer season and pandemic would be at peak in July," a statement from the government had read. Link https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/666290-pakistan-to-ease-lockdown-open-more-businesses-amid-surging-covid-19-infections

In NCC meeting held on 31st May "PM Imran mentioned that the government had prepared a 'negative list' of sectors that would remain shut down but "we have opened everything else". The list, he added, "will be shared later in the day as a debate is being held over the resumption of tourism. Link: https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/666290-pakistan-to-ease-lockdown-open-more-businesses- However government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir announced smart lock down on 3rd June for 15 days.PM of AJK said He saidban on holding of political or religious gatherings and sporting events and opening of all educational institutions and seminaries, marriage halls, playgrounds and other recreational spots, cinema halls and theatres, beauty parlours would also remain in force.

Public Transport is closed in Balochistan since 19th May. Link: https://www.dawn.com/news/1558185/balochistan-not-to-allow-public-transport-resumption 2: Public transport was closed in Azad Jammu and Kashmir only in whole country since 17th May, restricting interprovincial and local movement.But on 4th June, AJK also announced to easing lock down restrictions for public transport. link https://www.zameen.com/news/ajk-cabinet-eases-lockdown-restrictions-businesses-public-transport.html

People are recommended to stay at home already except AJK. The Azad Jammu and Kashmir issued SOP on 3rd June to go outside while easing lock down.The minister warned that the people found in the markets without valid reasons, without a photo ID and without a facemask would be fined Rs500. Children under 12 and elders beyond 60 years would not be permitted in the markets, he added. LinK: https://www.dawn.com/news/1560934/ajk-govt-enforces-smart-lockdown-for-15-days

Public transport was closed in Azad Jammu and Kashmir only in whole country since 17th May, restricting interprovincial and local movement.But on 4th June, AJK also announced to easing lock down restrictions for public transport. link https://www.zameen.com/news/ajk-cabinet-eases-lockdown-restrictions-businesses-public-transport.html

Public Transport opened in Baluchistan also which was only province left to open. Link https://www.geo.tv/latest/291975-balochistan-permits-public-transport-on-condition-of-coronavirus-sops

The government has decided to enforce a "smart lockdown", whenever a potential COVID-19 hotspot can be identified. https://reliefweb.int/report/pakistan/irc-pakistan-covid-19-country-update-june-18-2020

The government has decided to enforce a "smart lockdown", whenever a potential COVID-19 hotspot can be identified. https://reliefweb.int/report/pakistan/irc-pakistan-covid-19-country-update-june-18-2020

"Starting 20th June, all airlines that routinely fly to Pakistan would be allowed to operate inbound traffic to Pakistan, with roughly 250-300 inbound flights per week across the country." "Passengers will undergo heightened screening at established health desks upon arrival to the airport. Screening will be carried out using thermal gun, thermal scanners and reviews by health professionals. Each passenger must submit a signed Passenger Health Form (signed during the flight or upon arrival) before leaving the airport to ensure record keeping of inbound passengers, and confirming their willingness to abide by quarantine/home-isolation protocols. · Asymptomatic passengers will be sent home, and added to the Track and Trace system by respective provincial/federal authorities, and monitored to ensure self-isolation is carried out for 14 days. · Symptomatic passengers will be tested and quarantined until availability of test results; with option of paid / government quarantine facilities to be provided as per earlier policy." http://archive.fo/Whoxg

The Balochistan authorities have implemented a smart lockdown, in which hotspot areas of the virus are required to stay inside. Only one person is allowed to leave for essential groceries. https://www.samaa.tv/news/pakistan/2020/06/balochistan-to-implement-lockdown-in-hotspot-virus-areas/

Schools should be reopened in September subject to approval from the National Coordination Committee (NCC), provincial education ministers said on Wednesday. It was decided during the interprovincial education ministers’ virtual conference that educational institutions will be opened in the first week of September, provided there is permission from the Ministry of National Health Services and approval from the NCC, which had previously decided to keep schools closed until July 15. Sources said that various proposals were discussed to extend the closure of schools or reopen from July 16. After a detailed discussion, the participants decided that institutions should stay closed until the first week of September and reopened after the coronavirus situation has been reviewed under standard operating procedures (SOPs). https://www.dawn.com/news/1567886/schools-should-reopen-in-september-education-ministers-decide

Different regions in Pakistan are being administered under 'smart lockdown' with defined SOPs for households and businesses. Guidelines for citizens can be found at https://tribune.com.pk/story/2249673/smart-lockdown-sops-stay-safe-pandemic Businesses under smart lockdown are to stay closed unless essential services. Localities in regions like Rawalpindi and KP have been put under lockdown. https://www.dawn.com/news/1567207/three-more-hotspots-in-rawalpindi-identified-for-lockdown https://www.dawn.com/news/1568205/sops-being-strictly-enforced-in-pindi-dc https://www.dawn.com/news/1566386/centre-suggests-extension-of-smart-lockdown-in-karachi

The officials urged citizens to avoid moving to other areas when they receive a smart lockdown notification."Stay confined inside your home and avoid going out except in an emergency. If there is a need to get out due to compulsion or emergency, a young and healthy person in the house should go out wearing a mask with precautionary measures and maintain social distance. Under no circumstances should you leave the lockdown area," they maintained. People who have to come out of the home, the officials said, should not go outside the designated hotspot limits, urging to take special care of elderly people at home, pregnant women, high blood pressure and diabetes patients. https://tribune.com.pk/story/2249673/smart-lockdown-sops-stay-safe-pandemic

For places under smart lockdown, no movement is permitted to zones outside the containment area. This is being recorded as a restriction on internal movement. https://tribune.com.pk/story/2249673/smart-lockdown-sops-stay-safe-pandemic

In concert with the announcement by provincial ministers on 2 July, the national Education Minister announced the tentative reopening of schools for 15 September 2020 depending on coronavirus transmission at that time. http://archive.fo/YqA2H

With the upcoming Eid-ul-Adha celebrations on 30 July, the Prime Minister emphasized adherence to nationwide SOPs on public gathering, and encouraged marking the holiday with "simplicity": "Prime Minister Imran Khan has once again urged the nation to observe standard operating procedures (SOPs) on Eidul Azha to avoid a spike in Covid-19 cases in the country." http://archive.fo/fOZ9b

New "smart lockdowns" are set to be implemented from 25 July within the Taxila and Wah localities of Rawalpindi based on rising COVID-19 cases in these residential zones, among various other smart lockdowns in localities across the country. http://archive.fo/rLfBT

The federal government has stated that it will review its decision to reopen schools in the first week of September, according to Federal Minister for Education Shafqat Mahmood. See the article in The Nation, archived: http://archive.vn/CCwhW

The Sindh government has decided to close all recreational places - including beaches - until 4 August. See The Express Tribune, archived: http://archive.vn/lY7vb

On 28 July it was announced that a complete lockdown would be imposed in Punjab Province ahead of Eidul Azha until 5 August. The lockdown has now been lifted. All businesses will be allowed to operate from 9am to 7pm, Monday to Friday, unless they fall on the “negative list”, such as restaurants, theme parks, beauty parlours, cinemas or theatres etc. A complete lockdown will remain on Saturday and Sunday. See The Express Tribune, archived: http://archive.vn/lY7vb

On 3 August, 2020, the Province of Balochistan Home and Tribal Affairs Department announced the extension of the provincial lockdown until August 17. See The Express Tribune, archived: http://archive.vn/lY7vb

In the province of Sindh, all public places including parks and restaurants will remain closed until August 15. /web/20200812104316/ https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/pakistan-extends-lockdown-in-southern-province/1913761

The province of Sindh is under lockdown until August 15. https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/pakistan-extends-lockdown-in-southern-province/1913761

The National Coordination Committee decided that all educational institutions would open on September 7. /web/20200812104757/ https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/696942-covid-lockdown-over-pakistan-to-open-from-monday

Dine-in restaurants and beauty salons will reopen on August 10, said Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Asad Umar. https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/696942-covid-lockdown-over-pakistan-to-open-from-monday Other sectors to reopen are: Hotels, restaurants and cafes, parks and grounds, cinemas and theatres, non-contact sports, sports clubs and gyms, sports tournaments (indoor and outdoor) without audience, beauty parlours and spas, shrines (for permitted gatherings), tourism, public transport with SOPs. Educational institutions, marriage halls, business and expo centres in the province will be allowed to reopen from September 15. https://www.dawn.com/news/1573652

Procession and gathering must obtain permission in advance - including during religious festivals and national holidays. https://www.dawn.com/news/1573652

Phased Approach for Sports and Athletic Activities. Phase 1: Groups of only 10 or less people should be at team workouts or practices. Social distancing should remain during these practices. Phase 2: Team practices can begin (maximum 25 individuals). They should be limited to one on one drills and individualized equipment. Social distancing should be in place for most of the practice. https://archive.fo/niJCB

All kinds of public transport are allowed to reopen on August 10. /web/20200812105643/ https://www.dawn.com/news/1573652

The Punjab Primary and Secondary Healthcare Department withdrew the government's lockdown order, allowing resumption of "pre-Covid-19 practices subject to adoption of SOPs/guidelines". https://www.dawn.com/news/1573652

No measures found with regards to internal movement.

"Starting 20th June, all airlines that routinely fly to Pakistan would be allowed to operate inbound traffic to Pakistan, with roughly 250-300 inbound flights per week across the country." "Passengers will undergo heightened screening at established health desks upon arrival to the airport. Screening will be carried out using thermal gun, thermal scanners and reviews by health professionals. Each passenger must submit a signed Passenger Health Form (signed during the flight or upon arrival) before leaving the airport to ensure record keeping of inbound passengers, and confirming their willingness to abide by quarantine/home-isolation protocols. · Asymptomatic passengers will be sent home, and added to the Track and Trace system by respective provincial/federal authorities, and monitored to ensure self-isolation is carried out for 14 days. · Symptomatic passengers will be tested and quarantined until availability of test results; with option of paid / government quarantine facilities to be provided as per earlier policy." http://archive.fo/Whoxg

https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19 FISCAL A relief package worth PKR 1.2 trillion has been announced by the federal government on March 24, 2020. Key measures include: (i) elimination of import duties on emergency health equipment; (ii) relief to daily wage workers including PKR 75 billion of approved cash disbursements to 6.2 million workers, (iii) cash transfers to low-income families (PKR 150 billion), (iv) accelerated tax refunds to the export industry (PKR 100 billion), and (v) financial support to SMEs and the agriculture sector (PKR 100 billion) in the form of relief on electricity bill payments, bank lending support, as well as subsidies and tax incentives. The economic package also earmarks resources for an accelerated procurement of wheat (PKR 280 billion), financial support to utility stores (PKR 50 billion), relief in fuel prices (PKR 70 billion), support for health and food supplies (PKR 15 billion), electricity bill payments relief (PKR 110 billion), an emergency contingency fund (PKR 100 billion), and a transfer to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) for the purchase of necessary equipment to deal with the pandemic (PKR 25 billion). In addition, the authorities have launched a program for the construction sector to address the acute employment needs generated by the lockdowns, which include a special tax regime and no wealth declaration for projects launched during a short window until the end of 2020. Provincial governments have also announced fiscal measures, broadly consisting of cash grants to the low-income households, tax relief and additional health spending that includes increased compensation to healthcare workers. The government of Punjab announced a tax relief package of PKR 18 billion and a cash grants program of PKR 1.5 billion, while the government of Sindh has announced a cash grant and ration distribution program of PKR 1.5 billion for the low-income households.

https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19 The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has responded to the crisis by cutting the policy rate by a cumulative 525 basis points to 8.0 percent in the span of two months. The SBP has expanded the scope of existing refinancing facilities and introduced three new ones that aim at: (i) supporting hospitals and medical centers to purchase equipment to detect, contain, and treat COVID-19, (ii) stimulating investment in new manufacturing plants and machinery, as well as modernization and expansion of existing projects, and (iii) incentivizing businesses to avoid laying off their workers during the pandemic. Moreover, the SBP introduced temporary regulatory measures to maintain banking system soundness and sustain economic activity. These include: (i) reducing the capital conservation buffer by 100 basis points to 1.5 percent; (ii) increase the regulatory limit on extension of credit to SMEs by 44 percent to PRs 180 million ; (iii) relaxation of the debt burden ratio for consumer loans from 50 percent to 60 percent; (iv) allowing banks to defer clients’ payment of principal on loan obligations by one year; (v) relaxation of regulatory criteria for restructured loans for borrowers who require relief beyond the extension of principal repayment for one year; and (vi) suspension of bank dividends for the first two quarters of 2020 to shore up capital.

The Government of Pakistan's website consists of a COVID19 section will all the related information, press releases and guidelines. See website, archived: http://covid.gov.pk/

Special Assistant to PM Dr. Zafar Mirza Said "We've only been testing visibly symptomatic patients thus far. It is possible that we will start testing asymptomatic people going forward provided they came in contact with those who have already tested positive". Link: https://www.dawn.com/news/1548375

Comprehensive contract tracing exists throughout the country. "Identification of contacts: All persons categorized as a contact of confirmed cases should be followed-up, and monitored for the development of symptoms for 14 days after the last exposure to the case (i.e. the maximum incubation period). Contacts of suspected cases should also be considered for contact management if there is likely to be a delay in confirming or excluding COVID-19 infection in the suspected case, such as delayed testing". See website link, archived: https://archive.vn/LrQBq