The Punjab Institute of Cardiology (PIC) has suffered a loss of Rs 70 million due to the attack by a group of lawyers, it has been learnt.

Sources in the PIC told Business Recorder that the loss of Rs 70 million includes damage to the institute main building and medical equipment. The vehicles parked outside the PIC were also damaged. The lawyers used stones and bricks to smash windows and destroy hospital equipment in the emergency ward, the sources added. At least five people died in the incident. Two people died in the PIC emergency ward, while three patients were rushed to other hospitals where they were later pronounced dead, the sources claimed.

Despite passage of two days after the incident, consulting doctors and paramedics are afraid to resume work at the PIC. They are scared and are staying away from their duties. The poor patients are sufferers and paying the price of the sad incident.

Provincial Minister for Health Dr Yasmeen Rashid Friday gave a cheque of financial aid of Rs 1 million to the family members of deceased Muhammad Boota who lost his life during the hooliganism in PIC.

Dr Yasmeen said that on the instructions of chief minister, financial aid is being provided to the bereaved family members of deceased who lost their lives. She said even lawyers community is ashamed over this incident.

The Punjab government had announced financial assistance of Rs 1 million to each bereaved family. The government also announced that damages being done to the vehicles of doctors and other persons will also be compensated.

Moreover, 'Solidarity Walk' was held at Lahore General Hospital (LGH) against the attack on PIC in which professors, doctors, nurses, paramedical staff and leader of grand health alliance jointly participated.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2019