Dubai: Following the two confirmed coronavirus cases in the counry, Pakistan has suspended all its flights to Iran with effect from midnight on Thursday.
The extreme measures came after reports that two people who were diagnosed with coronavirus have come back after visiting Iran. Iran has officially reported about 141 cases, with 22 deaths on Thursday. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has also stopped carrying people who want to travel for Umrah or tourism. The airline now only allowes passengers who have residents visas for Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia on Thursday banned foreign pilgrims from entering th country for Umrah over the new coronavirus.
Pakistan has already closed all road and rail lins with Iran earlier last week as the Taftan border was shut down on Sunday.
Joint Secretary of Pakistan Aviation Abdul Sattar Khokhar said. “Aviation Division has decided to cease all direct flights between Pakistan and Iran with effect from midnight between 27 and 28 February 2020 till further notice.”
The decision was taken in light of the Saudi government’s decision to suspend Umrah and tourism operations in light of the growing number of coronavirus affectees all over the world.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) also tweeted about the measures the airline is taking to prevent the coronavirus spread.
Pakistan also announced to close down schools in Balochistan province until March 15 and in Sindh province for two days-- February 27 and 28.
