Dera Ghazi Khan has a population of 451,000. It is located in Punjab near Balochistan. Recently, 780 suspected Covid-19 cases have been reported by the government authorities in D.G. Khan, five of whom have tested positive.

Most of these infected people have symptoms associated with the virus. They have returned from Iran, entering the country from Taftan border and belong to various parts of Punjab.

It is beyond comprehension why the federal government chose D.G. Khan for establishing a quarantine for the pilgrims, especially when D.G. Khan itself lacks basic health facilities, and technical and medical expertise. Although the officials have announced a high-alert caution, negligence of the authorities in rapid diagnosis, and lack of medical and technical expertise and supplies will substantially increase the spread of Covid-19 in D.G. Khan.

Doctors at the so-called quarantine centers tents in the grounds of Ghazi University, Mir Chakar Rind University and Agriculture University have complained about incomplete medical kits and lack of resources to efficiently treat patients. Two of the doctors, Usama and Saba, were exposed to the virus and tested positive because of lack of protective equipment while screening the suspected Covid-2019 patients.

In addition to this, a partial lockdown has been imposed in the city. A majority of the people live below the poverty line, but the government is yet to provide ration to these people. It is especially a challenge for us to contain the disease when the culture of handshaking and hugging continues owing to the lack of awareness.

I urge the local authorities, Punjab and federal governments, WHO and all medical and political organisations to ponder over issues raised above. They should run awareness campaigns for people about preventive measures. Medical and technical support to treat and contain this disease will improve the health of the people in DG Khan.

Last but not least, the government should take the pilgrims coming from Taftan to advanced and larger hospitals and cities such as Nishtar Hospital in Multan, which is not far.

Abdullah Saleh Baloch

D.G. Khan

Published in Dawn, April 2nd, 2020