As many as 15 officials have been deployed to monitor the television coverage of the coronavirus outbreak by private channels, a move the government described as efforts to curb rumours.

The information ministry issued a notice to this effect on Wednesday (Mar 25).

The team comprising of officials of deputy secretary ranks will monitor nearly 30 television channels as well as online publications.

On Thursday (Mar 26), Additional Informational Secretary Mizan-ul-Alam said that the officials will monitor from home to ensure that “proper and reliable news is broadcast.”