In a first-of-its-kind initiative in Pakistan, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has officially launched a government-run “Deceased Care Service”, aimed at ensuring the respectful and free transportation of deceased individuals from hospitals to their homes.
The service, introduced in its initial phase, will operate in Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi, where bodies will be transported free of cost from government hospitals with dignity and care. Authorities have announced plans to expand the service gradually to every tehsil across Punjab by June, ensuring wider accessibility.
Under the program, each tehsil will be equipped with dedicated ambulances specifically designated for deceased transport. The Chief Minister formally handed over the keys of these vehicles for the three cities and also inspected the fleet.
During her visit, Maryam Nawaz interacted with rescue personnel assigned to the service, appreciating their efforts and urging them to serve with sincerity and compassion. She emphasized that staff should work with a spirit of public service for the sake of humanity and strictly refuse any payments, even if offered by grieving families.
She further directed that in cases of a patient’s death, families should be provided with counseling and emotional support, acknowledging the pain of losing a loved one. “In moments of grief, we stand with the people and will continue to do so,” she said.
Highlighting existing challenges, the Chief Minister termed it unfortunate that private transporters often charge exorbitant fares for transferring bodies, adding that this initiative aims to eliminate such exploitation.
Provincial Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique termed the launch a commendable step, stating that the service is designed to make people feel supported during their most difficult times. He noted that currently the service will operate within city limits in the three pilot cities, with plans to expand further in subsequent phases, including the provision of private ambulances where needed.
Director General Rescue Services, Dr. Rizwan Naseer, briefed officials on the operational framework. According to the briefing, citizens can access the service by calling 1122, while trained, uniformed drivers will be available round the clock at government hospitals. Dedicated service desks will also be established in hospitals to facilitate the process.
Additionally, the service will allow the transfer of deceased individuals to hospital mortuaries if required, with operations monitored through a smart rescue management and dispatch system.
The initiative marks a significant step toward compassionate governance, aiming to provide relief and dignity to families during times of loss.
