Pakistan announces reopening of restaurants, parks and cinemas as virus cases drop

Pakistan on Thursday announced it would be lifting most of the country's remaining coronavirus restrictions after seeing new cases drop for several weeks.

All restaurants and parks will be allowed to re-open from Aug.10, as will theatres, cinemas and public transport, said Asad Umar, who heads Pakistan's task force to fight the coronavirus.

"Pakistan's situation has improved significantly compared to other countries in the region," Umar said.

According to government data, Pakistan's daily virus deaths peaked at about 150 in June. But the number has steadily dwindled and on Thursday only 21 new fatalities were reported.

In all, Pakistan has confirmed more than 280,000 cases including more than 6,000 deaths, though observers say that with only limited testing, the real number is likely much higher.

Schools and universities are slated to reopen Sept15 subject to a final review, Umar said.

He also warned the government could reimpose restrictions if businesses and other establishments don't enforce social distancing and other measures.

Agence France-Presse