The Balochistan government has announced shutting down shopping malls and public transport in the province other than imposing a ban on dine-in at hotels and restaurants amid fears of coronavirus spread in the country.

Announcing the decisions, the chief secretary said that section 144 is being imposed in the province, barring a gathering of over 10 people. “The hotels and restaurants have been asked to shut the dine-in facility,” he said adding that people should also refrain from travelling to Sindh and Punjab provinces.

The virus spread quickly, however, there is no need to worry as it could be avoided by adopting preventive measures, he said and further advised that people should wash their hands regularly.

He said that on Wednesday, overall 2,700 pilgrims were present at the quarantine facilities and of them, 55 have tested negative for the virus as they await reports of other samples.

“Anyone testing positive will be shifted to a hospital,” he said adding that the province has taken efforts beyond its available resources.

“We have provided all facilities to the people currently staying at quarantine facility,” he said.