Sindh government is ramping up its disaster preparedness and strengthening its rescue services. Chief Secretary Sindh, Syed Asif Hyder Shah, announced the establishment of district headquarters for Rescue 1122 and satellite centers along highways during a key meeting to review the performance of Rescue 1122.
The meeting, attended by Secretary Rehabilitation Waseem Shamshad, Secretary Health Rehan Iqbal Baloch, DG Rescue 1122 Abid Shaikh, CEO SIEHS Brigadier (R) Tariq Quadir Lakhiar, and other key officials, focused on evaluating Rescue 1122's performance and future strategies.
Secretary Rehabilitation and DG Rescue 1122 highlighted that since 2022, Rescue 1122 has effectively responded to 557,330 medical emergencies, 634 fire incidents, 35 building collapses, and 94 drowning cases, underscoring its vital role in emergency services. Significant steps have been taken to establish divisional headquarters for Rescue 1122, further enhancing its capabilities.
The meeting emphasized the integrated efforts of Rescue 1122, which includes collaboration with various security agencies, K-Electric, Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), and other organizations. Rescue 1122 is actively engaged in urban emergency responses, including ambulance services, fire brigade operations, and water rescue missions.
Chief Secretary Syed Asif Hyder Shah stressed the importance of preparedness for potential natural disasters and directed Rescue 1122 to conduct a thorough inventory of heavy machinery available in the province. He emphasized that the deployment of heavy machinery in public and private institutions should be coordinated through Rescue 1122 to ensure readiness and efficient disaster management.
Looking ahead, the Chief Secretary announced the establishment of district headquarters for Rescue 1122 in all districts. Additionally, rescue centers will be set up every 50 kilometers along motorways and highways across the province to ensure swift response times.
Furthermore, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has been instructed to enhance its capacities to support the expanded scope of Rescue 1122's operations.
This meeting marks a significant step in strengthening the emergency response infrastructure in Sindh, ensuring that Rescue 1122 remains well-equipped and prepared to handle any crisis effectively.