Prime Minister Imran Khan has said the federal government will continue to assist all the provinces to cope with the coronavirus pandemic.

He made these remarks during a meeting at Hayatabad Medical Complex in Peshawar on Friday where he was given a detailed briefing about coronavirus situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The Prime Minister appreciated the provincial government's steps against coronavirus saying in the present situation, the focus of government must also be on provision of relief to the weak and poor segments of the society.

Imran Khan directed the provincial governor, chief minister and relevant ministers to visit the corona affected areas of the province and ensure the provision of facilities there.

On the occasion, the Prime Minister was informed that two hundred and seventy-five Quarantine centers have been established in the province having the capacity to accommodate eighteen thousand patients.

The Prime Minister was informed that five hundred and eighty three ventilators are available in the province and that their number is further being enhanced. 639 regular doctors and 1299 on contract have been recruited to meet the emergency.  In addition nine thousand retired doctors, nurses and paramedical staff have volunteered their services which be utilized when required. Four hundred response teams have been established in the province at the official level.

The meeting was informed that corona testing capacity is also being enhanced.    It was informed the Provincial Chief Minister has recently announced a relief package worth thirty two billion rupees.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Imran Khan also visited an Ehsaas ration and cash point in Peshawar and reviewed arrangements.

He was briefed by Special Assistant to the PM on Social Protection and Poverty Alleviation Dr Sania Nishtar about the measures taken by the government for provision of financial assistance to poor in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Imran Khan also distributed cash among the destitute under Ehsas Programme.

Zahid/Johar/Khokhar