K-P govt to follow PM's instructions on lifting lockdown: Wazir

• Ajmal says provincial government will allow shops to remain open for five days a week, however they would remain closed on weekends.
• K-P government will also allow industries to operate: Adviser.
• Government will reopen educational institutions according to federal government's directives, says Wazir.

(Karachi) Adviser to Chief Minister on Information Ajmal Wazir has said that the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government will follow the decisions made by the prime minister regarding lifting of lockdown in the country.

Addressing a press conference in Peshawar on Friday, he said that the K-P government will reopen educational institutions according to the decision of the federal government. He said, "We will not take an independent decision in this regard."

He mentioned that the provincial government will allow shops to remain open for five days a week, however they would remain closed on weekends. Wazir added that the provincial government will also allow industries to operate including poly vinyl chloride (PVC) pipes, aluminium and steel, paint and electrical equipment.

He added that discussions were being held on inter-district and intra-district transport with transporters and the decision will be shared with the people whenever it is taken.

Eralier, Prime Minister Imran Khan announced that lockdown will be lifted in phases across the country from May 9.

He said labourers, ordinary people, and small business had suffered a lot due to lockdown, which prompted the government to ease the lockdown. He said construction sector has already opened and various sectors relating to the construction industry will also be opened.

The PM urged people to take responsibility, and follow the standard operating procedures (SOPs) issued by the government. He said whoever leaves his home and all industries that are allowed to reopen will have to follow the SOPs.

Regarding transport, the PM said he believes public transport should be reopened as it is the common man's mode of transport. He said the provinces however, have reservations so transport will not be opened.