(Karachi) Information Minister Shibli Faraz has said that coronavirus impact has intensified in the country and the government will be compelled to reinforce strict lockdown if people failed to follow SOPs.

Addressing a media briefing in Islamabad on Wednesday, he said that cases and deaths related to coronavirus are increasing on a daily basis. "Our own MPAs are getting sick while our friend from Sindh Maula Bux Chandio has also contracted the virus. It doesn't spare anyone. We will suffer if we don't take care of ourselves," he remarked.

He added that the COVID-19 pandemic has badly affected poor segments of the society. He maintained that people did not follow SOPs and take precautionary measures which resulted in drastic spike in corona cases.

Faraz said, "The disease does not discriminate and could affect anyone anywhere." He said the government can only remind people but it is their responsibility to take precautionary measures.

He highlighted, "When PTI came into power it inherited an already crumbled economy but coronavirus pandemic increased problems and hit economy badly."

The minister pointed out that action will be taken against those who fail to follow guidelines set by the government. "People are taking the corona outbreak lightly which is a matter of concern," he stated.

To a question on Shehbaz Sharif's money laundering case, Shibli Faraz said that the government is considering to include PML-N president's name in Exit Control List. "Corruption evidence is available with investigating agencies against Shehbaz Sharif and he will be held accountable for each penny."

He said the opposition wants to stop the process of accountability which is not possible.