Planning Minister Asad Umar has underlined the need for a united national response to meet the challenge of Coronavirus pandemic.
He was briefing the media along with Special Assistant on National Health Services Dr. Zafar Mirza and Minister for Economic Affairs Hammad Azhar in Islamabad on Tuesday evening. The Planning Minister said the first meeting of the National Command Center was held in Islamabad today to discuss national response against coronavirus pandemic.
He said 50 billion rupees are being allocated for Utility Stores Cooperation to ensure the provision of all food items to the general public across the country. Talking about the post-Corona situation, Asad Umar said the government decided to enhance a number of Corona Testing Laboratories to 32 across Pakistan, which will have a capacity of conducting nine hundred thousand tests till the 15th of next month. He said the government will provide Corona testing kits to various hospitals engaged in treating Corona-hit patients.
Asad Umar also ensured the provision of personal protective equipment to all medical staff working in various hospitals. He urged opposition to set aside their personal differences and demonstrate unity in a common fight against the pandemic. Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Economic Affairs Hammad Azhar said Rs 280 billion have been allocated to purchase wheat under Prime Minister Stimulus Package.
The minister dispelled the impression that the country is facing a flour crisis and warned that those involved in hoarding will be dealt with iron hands.
