KARACHI: The Sindh government announced the launch of a free air ambulance service through an agreement between the Sindh Local Council Association and Airlift Sales and Services Limited (ASSL) Aviation to improve healthcare access across the province.
Provincial Ministers Syed Nasir Hussain Shah and Saeed Ghani announcing the initiative in a joint statement, expressed satisfaction at fulfilling the vision of PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.
They said the air ambulance service will facilitate the transfer of patients from remote areas such as Ghotki, Sukkur, and Khairpur to Karachi, addressing the logistical challenges posed by the six-hour journey to the city.
Mr Ghani described the project as a major achievement that will have a profound impact on healthcare delivery in the province.
He also scotched rumors of potential changes in the Sindh governorship and cabinet, underscoring the importance of focusing on the positive developments, such as the air ambulance service.
Mr Shah said the initiative is realization of Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s vision that would be expanded to other regions, including Hyderabad, Thar, Nawabshah, and Larkana, with the potential for operations from airstrips in Badin.
Syed Kamil Haider Shah, Chairman of the Local Council Association Sindh, added that the service would also enable the transportation of patients from South Punjab and North Sindh to Karachi, potentially saving many lives.
The agreement with ASSL Aviation includes provisions for five free flights per month for the Sukkur, Ghotki, and Khairpur District Councils, he added.
Akbar Jafri, CEO of ASSL, said the company already provides air ambulance services across Pakistan, including in cities like Multan, Rahim Yar Khan, and Quetta. With the launch of this new service, patients from Sukkur, Ghotki, and Kashmore will now have enhanced access to Karachi’s medical facilities, he said.