Lahore, In an unprecedented move to enhance medical emergency responses, the Provincial Minister of Health and Emergency Services, Khawaja Salman Rafique, announced the initiation of an Air Ambulance service in Punjab. This announcement was made during his visit to the Emergency Services Department at Thokar Niaz Baig, where he also reviewed progress on various other emergency service enhancements, including expansion efforts on the motorway.
According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab, Minister Rafique’s visit included an inspection of the Cadets Hostel and the Managers Training Center. During his visit, Dr. Rizwan Naseer, Secretary of the Punjab Emergency Services Department, briefed him on the operational aspects and service delivery mechanisms of the upcoming air ambulance service. This initiative is described as the largest project in the history of Punjab’s health services.
Minister Rafique outlined that the air ambulance service is part of a broader effort to improve emergency services across the province, including on Punjab’s motorways where rescuers will be stationed at key entry and exit points. He highlighted the critical role of trained emergency medical technicians, whose certifications are conducted in collaboration with Aga Khan University, in delivering these services. Furthermore, he underscored the success of motorbike rescuers who have provided emergency assistance to over four million citizens to date, emphasizing the increasing need for such services in light of the rising rate of traffic accidents.
The minister also stressed the importance of enforcing the Road Safety Act, particularly to reduce motorcycle-involved traffic accidents, which account for 80% of such incidents. He advocated for strict adherence to traffic rules as a measure of a civilized society and indicated that the scope of the Emergency Services Department in Punjab is set to expand significantly.
Dr. Rizwan Naseer added that the department is focused on enhancing the quality of relief operations and improving the emergency management system, with ongoing monitoring of the Air Ambulance Service plan to ensure its effectiveness.
This initiative reflects the Punjab government’s commitment to advancing healthcare and emergency services, aiming to provide rapid and efficient medical assistance to the province’s population.