ISLAMABAD — The Pakistani government announced that educational institutions in densely populated cities would close for two weeks and reimposed a series of coronavirus-related restrictions amid a surge in cases, dpa reported.

"It has been decided that all educational institutions in cities with rising numbers of new infections will remain closed for two weeks," Education Minister Shafqat Mahmood told media.

The shutdowns begin on March 15 and affects cities, including Lahore, Islamabad, and Peshawar. Schools have been shut twice in the past year and then reopened.

"The number of coronavirus cases is rising once again, though the situation was under control during the month of February," Health Minister Faisal Sultan said.

In addition, the government has reimposed restrictions such as the early closure of commercial activities, "smart" lockdowns in virus hotspots and the banning of large indoor gatherings, particularly weddings.

The country has so far reported 595,239 cases of Covid-19 and 13,324 related deaths. At least 1,786 new cases and 43 deaths were reported during the last 24 hours, according to the Health Ministry. — Saudi Press agency