LAHORE: Chief Minister Punjab Mohsin Naqvi promptly visited the Punjab Institute of Cardiology in Lahore, assessed the ongoing construction activities and reviewed the quality of work in the emergency block, which is currently under completion.
CM directed the authorities to finish the emergency block upgrade project by the end of December and instructed the upgrade of the Punjab Institute of Cardiology's OPD. The Chief Minister stated that the PIC OPD upgrade project would commence next week.
After the visit, Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi, in a media statement, mentioned that the PIC's design, developed through consultation, is scheduled for completion by December 30. Addressing the shortage of beds, he announced the addition of 108 more beds post-upgrade. To alleviate patient waiting times for tests, satellite clinics have been initiated in Kot Khawaja Saeed and Shahdara, with consideration for a clinic at Mian Munshi Hospital.
The Chief Minister highlighted that the renovation of the OPD would commence next week. He commended the dedicated team working tirelessly on the ongoing hospital upgrades, including the progress on PIC Third Floor, Ground Floor, and Irfan Block. Additionally, heart clinics are under development in Sahiwal, and work on the incomplete Heart Hospital in Dera Ghazi Khan is underway. The focus on cardiology facilities extends to Multan and Sialkot as well.
Clarifying his earlier statement, Naqvi emphasized that his remarks were not exclusive to doctors but applied to all departments. He urged everyone, including himself, to fulfill their duty hours. He acknowledged the dedication of many doctors working beyond their scheduled hours and encouraged protesting doctors to channel their passion positively. Referring to a Lahore High Court order, he reminded that doctors cannot legally protest. Expressing his disapproval of dishonest earnings, he cited teachings from the Holy Quran regarding false accusations.
The Chief Minister assured the public of his commitment to addressing issues without causing unnecessary hardship. He warned against crossing the line, noting that the state would intervene if necessary. Lastly, he emphasized that ministers and secretaries are accountable only to the people, and responses will not be provided to those opposing the ongoing up-gradation efforts, underscoring his patience and commitment to upholding the state's authority.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2023