The government has finally decided to ban public gatherings only after the COVID-19 situation in the country has gotten out of control. It took more than 4700 new infection cases and 57 deaths reported in a day to knock some sense in the authorities to tighten restrictions and counter the third wave.
While it is good that the government is showing some action, what is beyond comprehension is that the ban on wedding ceremonies will commence from April 5. What is holding the authorities back from not implementing an immediate ban on such gatherings? Even by a conservative estimate, it is clear that every day wasted means at least another 3000 positive cases.
The delay can cost us dearly. In many cities, all the ventilators allocated for COVID patients have already been occupied. Waiting till April 5 can prove catastrophic for hospitals. The new COVID strain, the leading contributor to the pandemic’s third wave, is much more virulent. It is pushing more patients into critical care, as the data available with the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) suggests. It is far more dangerous than the earlier strains as it also affects children.
Also, the gravity of the pandemic’s intensification can be gauged from the government’s deliberations over restricting intercity travel, which has already started to implement in the capital. The daily reporting of more than 4000 cases means that we have to take precautions with utmost seriousness. Similarly, given the prevalent situation, the government has no option but to take the strongest action now.
Admittedly, the country cannot afford a complete lockdown. However, the authorities can ensure restriction of movement and impose a blanket ban on all kinds of congregations till we flatten the curve. We have succeeded in levelling it before; we can do it now provided the government does not kneel before those who see even smart lockdowns as harmful for their businesses.
Source: https://nation.com.pk/30-Mar-2021/dangerous-third-wave
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