Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
In a landmark welfare and public service initiative, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved the launch of a free ambulance service for the transportation of deceased persons from public hospitals to their homes across the entire province of Punjab. The service will be implemented uniformly in every tehsil, ensuring equal access for both urban and rural populations.
The approval was granted during a special high-level meeting chaired by the Chief Minister to review arrangements aimed at strengthening humanitarian and municipal support infrastructure across the province. She directed authorities to submit a comprehensive execution plan to deploy dedicated government vehicles at all major public hospitals and ensure operational availability in each tehsil without delay.
During the briefing, Secretary Emergency Services Dr. Rizwan Naseer informed the meeting that at least one dedicated vehicle would be stationed in every tehsil to facilitate timely and respectful transportation of deceased individuals. Families will be able to avail the free service either by calling the Rescue 1122 helpline or by submitting a request through hospital help counters, ensuring streamlined access across all districts and tehsil-level healthcare facilities.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the province-wide rollout reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening social service delivery and improving public facility access at the grassroots level. The initiative is expected to reduce the logistical and financial burden on families while enhancing institutional support systems in hospitals and local administrative units throughout Punjab.
In addition, the meeting reviewed proposals to regulate private ambulance operators and introduce standardized service rates, aimed at improving transparency, service quality, and affordability across the province’s healthcare and transport support network.

Chunian : Sadaf Arshad District Reporter | ReNews Pakistan
Under the vision of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the “Nigehban-e-Ramadan” event was organized at the Cardiac Center and Tehsil Headquarters Hospital in Chunian. The program provided citizens and patients’ families with a safe, organized, and dignified space to break their fast during the holy month of Ramadan.
Local residents praised the administration’s efforts, noting that such initiatives help bring the community together and create a positive environment at key public locations. Citizens also suggested that similar events be held regularly in the future to ensure ongoing community engagement and strengthen the social fabric of the city.
Authorities highlighted that special attention was given to the arrangement of the venue, seating, and safety measures, enabling attendees to participate comfortably and with ease. Residents expressed their appreciation, saying that initiatives like these not only facilitate Ramadan activities but also foster cooperation and a sense of community in urban areas.

Lahore : ReNews Pakistan
The Government of Punjab has enforced a comprehensive legal framework to protect urban infrastructure, public property, and essential facilities across residential, commercial, and road networks. Under the Punjab Public Utilities Infrastructure Protection Ordinance 2026, theft, illegal removal, possession, transport, or sale of public infrastructure components such as manhole covers, streetlights, and protective barriers has been formally declared a criminal offence.
The ordinance was promulgated with the approval of Sardar Salim Haider Khan on February 19 under Article 128(1) of the Constitution, as the provincial assembly was not in session and immediate legal intervention was deemed necessary. The law applies throughout Punjab and aims to safeguard urban assets that are critical for public safety, mobility, and the functioning of residential and commercial areas.
According to the ordinance, theft of public infrastructure has been declared a non-bailable offence, carrying penalties ranging from one to three years imprisonment along with fines between PKR 200,000 and PKR 3 million, or both. Illegal removal, possession, purchase, or sale of such infrastructure components may also result in imprisonment and fines ranging from PKR 500,000 to PKR 3 million.
Strict regulatory controls have also been imposed on scrap dealers and rerolling plants. These entities are only permitted to handle infrastructure materials that have been permanently deformed and rendered unusable. Violations may result in imprisonment of up to three years, fines up to PKR 1 million, or higher penalties in severe cases.
The ordinance places clear legal responsibilities on government departments, utility service providers, and local authorities to ensure the protection, inspection, and maintenance of infrastructure across roads, housing areas, and public spaces. Authorities are required to maintain proper records and keep reserve stock to ensure immediate replacement of damaged or missing infrastructure.
In cases where infrastructure is missing or damaged, relevant authorities must immediately secure the site with safety barriers and warning signs and ensure timely restoration or replacement. Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action against responsible officials.
Enforcement authorities have been granted powers to inspect premises, obtain records, seize illegal materials, and seal facilities involved in violations. A whistleblower mechanism has also been introduced to encourage public reporting, strengthening the protection of urban property and ensuring safer and more secure living environments across Punjab.