The Punjab government on Friday extended the lockdown by 14 days as part of the efforts to contain the spread of coronavirus.

Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar said that the decision was made after a thorough consultation. The lockdown extension is inevitable, said the chief minister. The lockdown will remain in force until May 9, he added.

“Public is requested to follow the guidelines issued by the government and ensure that they don't leave home unless necessary,” the CM said.

The Punjab government allowed the opening of milk shops, general stores, tandoors and bakeries during Sehri timings from 2am to 4am.

The Punjab government banned congregational Sehr and Iftar during the Ramazan.

“Bakeries, agricultural machinery shops, auto workshops, spare parts shops will remain open from 9am to 5pm. While, milk shops, poultry shops and medical stores will remain open from 9am to 8pm as usual,” said the chief minister.

Usman Buzdar said public transport, shopping malls, schools, parks, restaurants, public and private offices would remain closed until May 9.

The Punjab chief minister said that the Punjab government would implement 20-point SOPs for mosques during Ramazan. The mosque committees would ensure the SOPs, he added.