Provincial Minister for Health and Emergency Services Khawaja Salman Rafique reviews flood preparedness, air ambulance performance

Provincial Minister for Health and Emergency Services Khawaja Salman Rafique visited the Rescue Headquarters on Tuesday, where he reviewed flood preparedness, ongoing and upcoming development projects, and the performance of the Air Ambulance Service

LAHORE, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Apr, 2026) Provincial Minister for Health and Emergency Services Khawaja Salman Rafique visited the Rescue Headquarters on Tuesday, where he reviewed flood preparedness, ongoing and upcoming development projects, and the performance of the Air Ambulance Service.

During the visit, the minister received a detailed briefing from Secretary Emergency Services Department Dr. Rizwan Naseer, district officers, and representatives of relevant institutions regarding progress on development initiatives. Dr. Naseer also briefed the minister on the Air Ambulance Service, Annual Development Programme (ADP) 2025-26, flood preparedness measures, and equipment upgrades.

Khawaja Salman Rafique said that improved preparedness would ensure timely response and effective rescue operations during emergencies. He directed authorities to fast-track the procurement of modern equipment and accelerate progress on development schemes.

The minister also ordered daily follow-ups and weekly progress reports from all concerned departments.

He added that, on the instructions of the Punjab Chief Minister, efforts are underway to further enhance the capacity of Rescue 1122 to provide the best possible services to the public.

The minister also reviewed progress on the construction of 33 new rescue stations and the Bhakkar airstrip through an online briefing with district officials and relevant departments.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Rizwan Naseer stated that the Air Ambulance Service has so far transported 270 critically ill patients from remote areas to advanced healthcare facilities. He added that the service incurred expenditures of Rs58 million during the fiscal year 2025-26.