Srinagar, Mar 13 (IANS): The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Friday suspended Shafqat Khan, Nodal Officer, Coronavirus Control Efforts in the Union Territory for dereliction of duties, a government statement said.

"Pending enquiry into his conduct Dr Shafqat Khan, is hereby placed under suspension with immediate effect. During the period of suspension the official shall remain attached with the office of Deputy Commissioner Kathua/Office of Chief Medical Officer Kathua," the order said.

Khan has been placed under suspension with immediate effect. Speaking to IANS, Khan also confirmed that he has been put under suspension.

The J&K government had recently established a 'Coronavirus Control Efforts' and appointed Khan as the nodal officer.

In the Union Territory one case has tested positive and 1,433 people are under surveillance, as per the health officials on Thursday.

In the wake of the virus threat, the J&K administration has ordered the closure all educational institutions.

The health department in J&K has been put on an alert to deal with possible cases of coronavirus in Kashmir. Trained staff has been mobilised and an isolation ward established.

Doctors have been deputed at the medical centres across Kashmir. The J&K government has also deputed medical staff to screen foreigners at the Srinagar airport.