Spread of coronavirus through Khunjerab Pass feared

Published January 29, 2020
The government of Gilgit-Baltis­tan has expressed fears about the spread of coronavirus through Khunjerab Pass.  — Reuters/File
The government of Gilgit-Baltis­tan has expressed fears about the spread of coronavirus through Khunjerab Pass. — Reuters/File

GILGIT: The government of Gilgit-Baltis­tan has expressed fears about the spread of coronavirus through Khunjerab Pass.

An official of the Gilgit-Baltistan health department told Dawn on Tuesday that all preventative measures were being taken to contain the infectious disease.

The health department has recommended deployment of medical staff to the border to check the disease and isolate patients and refer them for treatment.

Thermal scanners and other equipment, including gloves, surgical masks, disposable garments and long aprons as well as ambulances, would be available at the border.

The people who travel to China frequently would be identified and screened.

Meanwhile, dozens of political activists staged a protest outside the Gilgit Press Club against proposed opening of Khunjerab pass from February 2 to 8.

Published in Dawn, January 29th, 2020

Opinion

Editorial

Taxing targets
Updated 08 Jul, 2024

Taxing targets

The FBR can expect to be reminded very soon that taxation is just as much a political issue as it is a fiscal concern.
Ending vigilantism
08 Jul, 2024

Ending vigilantism

THE dangers that vigilantism — especially mob attacks and lynchings inspired by dubious rumours and allegations of...
Feudal crimes
08 Jul, 2024

Feudal crimes

FEUDAL impunity is destroying Pakistan’s poor populations. This is particularly true in Sindh where the vulnerable...
Political prerogative
Updated 07 Jul, 2024

Political prerogative

It should be left to parliament to decide how the country must proceed on the matter.
Pezeshkian’s test
07 Jul, 2024

Pezeshkian’s test

THE list of challenges, both domestic and foreign, before Iranian president-elect Masoud Pezeshkian is a long and...
Amending SOE law
07 Jul, 2024

Amending SOE law

IN Pakistan, reforms move slowly, particularly when powerful lobbies are involved. The reform of state-owned...