Punjab directs teaching hospitals to develop emergency response plans

LAHORE: Amid a zero-tolerance crackdown on safety lapses, the Punjab Health Department has ordered all teaching hospitals across the province to develop evacuation and emergency response plans within 24 hours.

In this regard, Punjab Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique chaired a meeting here on Saturday. It discussed effective measures to prevent fire incidents in government teaching hospitals. It was attended by Punjab Health Secretary Azmat Mahmood, Secretary of Emergency Services Dr Rizwan Naseer, and CEO of IDAP Captain (R) Shah Mir Iqbal. All Divisional Commissioners, Vice Chancellors, Executive Directors, MSs, and other officers were also present.

During the meeting, the Minister stated that fire safety and electrical safety measures are being prioritised and ensured in hospitals. “The protection of life and property of patients and hospital staff is the top priority, and therefore, any negligence will not be tolerated. Rescue 1122 provides regular training to staff in all hospitals to manage emergency situations. Every individual, from senior officers to employees at all levels, must receive emergency response and fire safety training,” he said.

He instructed Rescue 1122 teams to coordinate with all hospitals to ensure a comprehensive emergency plan, hazard identification, and the availability of necessary safety equipment for each hospital. Hospital administrations should take effective measures to handle administrative issues and emergencies within their jurisdiction, he added.

Meanwhile, all Vice Chancellors, Principals/EDS/Heads of Institutions (HOI), and Medical Superintendents have been directed to immediately implement the nomination of Emergency/Fire Safety Officers in hospitals and institutions.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026