KARACHI: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has issued the following Advisory to all Field formations of FBR in line with the Ministry of Interior directions and current international best practices and policies being pursued by the federal and provincial governments against the spread of fatal Corona virus (COVID-19)

FBR has advised all field formations to make strategies focusing on cutting down the number of employees by at least 50 percent initially for the next two weeks and onwards, if necessary effective March 24th positively

FBR employees above 50 years of age may be allowed to work from their homes except those employees whose presence is unavoidable for smooth functioning of the official business. Heads of all field formations are advised to take decision in this regard accordingly.

Field offices are further advised to allow female staff (mothers) to work from their homes.

FBR advised that all those employees who are suffering from Flu, Fever or carrying medical history of frequent Chest Infections, Asthma, Cardiac related problems or any other major disease shall be allowed to work from their homes. Moreover, Infrared Thermal Thermometers shall be handed over to the reception staff to monitor everyone who enters office premises.

FBR advised that lifts/elevators installed in the field offices shall be used as less as possible and lift operators shall be provided with antiseptic sprays and swabs to clean the buttons/ knobs regularly.

In order to avoid physical contact with door handles/knobs, it is advised that all office doors be kept open and room windows be kept open also to ensure ventilation.

FBR advised that field formations shall take measures essential to ensure Social Distancing immediately.

Every possible effort shall be made by the FBR ‘s field formations to ensure collection of tax revenue and smooth clearances of goods and passengers.