As the world is going back to normal with ease in travel restrictions, there are more signs that the coronavirus pandemic is on its way out in Pakistan as well because the authorities have also lifted the mandatory facemask condition on international and domestic flights.
As the Covid-19 infections and fatalities dropped drastically, Pakistan government is also taking gradual steps towards normality.
As the far as the figures of the last 24 hours (Saturday) were concerned, Pakistan has reported 39 more coronavirus infections and one fatality, showed the statistics released by the National Institute of Health (NIH) on Sunday morning, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
According to NIH data, the death toll in the country edged up to 30,619 while the number of total infections now stood at 1,572,712 after adding the fresh 39 cases.
During the last 24 hours (Saturday), 10,371 tests were conducted throughout Pakistan whereas the positivity ratio plunged to 0.38 percent. The number of patients in critical care was recorded at 46.
Facemasks not required on flights
The authorities in Pakistan have removed the mandatory facemask condition on domestic and international flights as the Covid cases dropped gradually.
Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has issued an advisory to all airlines and travel agents that wearing facemask is no more mandatory on board flights after the NCOC recommendations that pandemic-related restrictions should be eased following the decline in Covid-19 cases across the country.
"Facemask wearing is no longer a mandatory requirement for passengers on domestic and international flights. However, it is still preferable," according to a NCOC release.
A Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) spokesperson said the airline will follow the CAA travel advisory. "Well instructions would be compiled as soon as Pakistan CAA issues an advisory in view of above-mentioned directives," the spokesperson said while referring to the NCOC directive.
Last week, the UAE eased almost all Covid-related restrictions, including an optional facemask wearing on international flights.