The Punjab Health Department has placed 13 government hospitals in Lahore on high alert ahead of the Basant festival scheduled from February 6 to 8, directing authorities to ensure full preparedness for any emergency situations during the celebrations.
All designated hospitals have been instructed to maintain complete availability of medical officers, nursing staff and paramedical personnel, along with sufficient stocks of medicines, drips, vaccines and essential surgical equipment. Hospitals have also been told to arrange blood bags in advance and prepare updated lists of voluntary blood donors to meet any urgent needs.
As part of the emergency arrangements, hospital administrations have been ordered to allocate dedicated beds for Basant-related injuries and emergencies. Diagnostic facilities including X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan and MRI machines must remain fully functional throughout the festival period to avoid delays in treatment.
The health department has further emphasized that all mobile and landline communication systems at hospitals must remain active at all times. Hospital administrations are required to immediately submit detailed preparedness and contingency plans to the Punjab Health Department to ensure timely medical response and public safety during the Basant festivities.
