LAHORE, Feb 23 (APP): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved the launch of a free ambulance service for transporting deceased persons from public hospitals to their homes, marking the first such initiative in the province.
The decision was taken during a special meeting chaired by the chief minister to review arrangements for providing dignified and cost-free transportation facilities to bereaved families, here on Monday. She directed the authorities to present a comprehensive plan for deploying dedicated government vehicles at major public hospitals and ensuring availability of the service in every tehsil across Punjab.
During the meeting, it was agreed in principle to regulate private ambulance services as well. Proposals to introduce standardized rates for private operators were also reviewed to prevent overcharging and exploitation of grieving families.
Secretary Emergency Services Dr Rizwan Naseer briefed the participants that at least one vehicle would be stationed in each tehsil to facilitate the transfer of deceased persons from hospitals to their residences. Families will be able to avail the free service either by calling the emergency helpline 1122 or by submitting a request at hospital help counters.
The briefing further highlighted that the service would be monitored through a smart management system to ensure transparency and efficiency. In addition to intra-city transfers, the facility will also provide free transportation of deceased persons to other cities when required.
The initiative aims to ease the financial burden on families and ensure respectful handling of the deceased through an organized and state-supported system.