Major Health Sector Cleanup in Bahawalpur
The Health Department in Bahawalpur has launched an extensive operation against illegal medical practices and the distribution of substandard medicines, resulting in the immediate closure of numerous unauthorized healthcare facilities across the district. This decisive action comes under direct instructions from Provincial Health Minister Khawaja Imran Nazir, Secretary Health Nadia Saqib, and Special Secretary South Punjab Shahbaz Naqvi.
Widespread Inspections Yield Significant Results
Under the supervision of Dr. Amir Bashir, CEO of District Health Authority Bahawalpur, inspection teams conducted comprehensive visits to 161 healthcare centers throughout the region. The operation led to substantial regulatory actions, with 24 centers receiving fines and 22 facilities being sealed immediately for serious violations of health regulations.
All documented violations have been formally referred to the Punjab Healthcare Commission and District Quality Control Board for further legal proceedings. The successful execution of these operations was made possible through coordinated efforts involving Assistant Commissioners, Deputy District Health Officers, Drug Controllers, and Deputy Drug Controllers.
Zero Tolerance Policy Against Quackery
During a press briefing, Dr. Amir Bashir emphasized the department's unwavering stance against illegal medical practices. "There is absolutely no place for quackery or unauthorized medical activities in Bahawalpur district," he declared firmly. The CEO highlighted that providing safe and quality healthcare services to the public remains the Health Department's foremost priority.
Dr. Bashir further explained that genuine improvement in the health sector can only be achieved by systematically eliminating irresponsible and unqualified practitioners. In a significant disciplinary move, the department immediately suspended one of its employees following a misconduct complaint, with a detailed report forwarded to Secretary Health for appropriate action.
The health authorities have appealed to citizens to support their ongoing campaign by seeking medical treatment exclusively from registered doctors and authorized hospitals. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious or illegal medical practices directly to the District Health Authority.
Massive Infrastructure Development Approved
In a parallel development aligned with Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif's vision, the district has received approval for development projects worth Rs. 5.75 billion under the "Saraken Bahal – Punjab Khushhal" Program. The approval came during a meeting of the District Coordination Committee for Development, chaired by MPA Mian Shoaib Owaisi.
This ambitious infrastructure initiative will see the Highways Division Bahawalpur execute 86 development schemes focused on constructing and rehabilitating over 183 kilometers of roads across the district. The project aims to significantly enhance travel facilities in both urban and rural areas, providing modern, high-quality road infrastructure for public use.
Comprehensive Road Improvement Strategy
The development plan incorporates multiple technological approaches to road construction and maintenance. Approximately 30 roads will be upgraded using TST (Tack Seal Treatment) technology, while 56 roads will receive complete carpeting to ensure smooth, durable, and efficient traffic movement.
During the meeting held at the Deputy Commissioner's Office Committee Room, detailed briefings revealed that the total road length covered under these schemes amounts to 183.29 kilometers. The estimated cost for construction and rehabilitation stands at Rs. 4.36 billion, with additional expenditures for tuff paving and drainage improvements bringing the total project value to Rs. 5.75 billion.
The meeting saw participation from key stakeholders including Deputy Commissioner Dr. Farhan Farooq, MPAs Khalid Mahmood Jajja, Hasan Askari Sheikh, Sahibzada Ghazain Abbasi, Syed Amir Ali Shah, and Mian Shoaib Owaisi, along with other important representatives.
Expected Benefits for Bahawalpur Residents
Upon completion, these infrastructure enhancements are projected to benefit both urban and rural residents of Bahawalpur by delivering safer, smoother, and more reliable road networks. The improved connectivity is expected to support public welfare initiatives and contribute substantially to the growth of the regional economy, marking a significant step forward in the district's development trajectory.
