ISLAMABAD: Minister for information and Broadcasting Senator Shibli Faraz says the government devised a proactive strategy to contain and prevent the spread of coronavirus pandemic keeping in view the ground realities and the country's economic situation.

Briefing the media about the cabinet meeting in Islamabad today [Tuesday], he said we are constantly reviewing the situation arising out of the COVID-19 and holding consultation with the National Command and Operation Centre and all the relevant departments to deal the pandemic effectively.

The Information Minister said government is striving hard to save the country's economy and lives of the people during corona pandemic.  He said Pakistan cannot afford the complete lockdown.

Senator Shibli Faraz said NCOC is formulating strategy on the basis of facts and figures in order to upgrade medical facilities for the corona patients.

He said the number of testing labs, ventilators and oxygen beds has significantly been increased to provide best medical treatment facilities to the patients of coronavirus.

The Information Minister said the number of corona patients was increased when the people neglected to follow SOPs with regard to coronavirus during Eid-ul-Fitr. He said if we will not adhere to the SOPs then the situation will further deteriorate.

He appealed the general public to strictly follow the precautionary measures to cope with the coronavirus and run the country's economy smoothly. He said strictly following the SOPs is of vital importance to minimize the damage due to coronavirus.

He said lockdown will be carried out in the targeted and affected areas of the coronavirus. He said fine will be imposed on those who will violate the SOPs regarding coronavirus.