Islamabad: Two mosques in the Pakistani capital have been vacated and sealed by authorities after a foreigner, who was part of the Tableghi Jamaat, tested positive for the novel coronavirus.

Islamabad Deputy Commissioner Hamza Shafqaat told Dawn that both mosques had been sealed after being disinfected.

"Terrible lapse and criminal carelessness on part of the Khateeb and Tableeghi jamat," Shafqaat said in a tweet. "They knew that one of them had symptoms and they kept on roaming around."

Meanwhile, the Khyber Pakhtun­khwa has announced the closure of all markets, shopping malls and restaurants in the province. According to a notification, this began today morning at 9am and will continue till March 24.

Take away will not be allowed, however, deliveries are permitted.

In a video message, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah said he had consulted ulema, politicians as well as administrations following which it was decided that a lockdown would be imposed in Sindh from midnight. He said that all offices will be closed and gatherings banned. Additionally, those who are not required to, will not be allowed to go outside in public.