Pakistan faces a lack of primary health facilities in rural areas: Shafqat Mahmood

Lahore: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Central Information Secretary, Shafqat Mahmood expressed his grief over the deaths of dozens of children suffering from measles in Salehput, Kandhkot, Kashmore and other areas of Sindh. The rising death toll which is now over a hundred is a result of the provincial health department’s failure to take notice of the health problems arising in the flood affected areas.

“The health authorities have closed their eyes and done nothing to take preventive measures in the flood affected areas and other parts of the province,” said Shafqat Mahmood. According to reports in most areas the villages have completely submerged and there has been nothing for children to eat. No proper medical facilities have been provided to those affected. Pakistan faces a lack of primary health facilities in rural areas, which has led to higher risk of an epidemic.

Once in power PTI will ensure implementation of their comprehensive health policy to ensure better medical care for the people. “Chief Minister Sindh, Qaim Ali Shah should take responsibility and ensure that proper health care is provided for the affected children,” says Shafqat Mahmood.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf expresses severe concern over the rising death toll from toxic cough syrup in Gujranwala. Previously in Lahore the same syrup resulted in loss of many precious lives. PTI slams the indifferent attitude of the provincial government of Punjab, saying that the rulers in Punjab are focused on politically motivated projects but a common man’s life and health is the least of their priorities.

The incident reflects sheer lack of responsibility by the provincial government as the scandal comes after over 150 heart patients died earlier this year in Lahore after taking faulty medicine made locally. Mr. Shahbaz Sharif holds the health portfolio and is ultimately responsible for the tragic deaths. In any “democratic country” the minister would have resigned rather than making pathetic attempts to deflect blame on other authorities.

Another important fact is that the provincial government of Punjab enjoys the services of 450 Drug Inspectors. With such a hefty staff it is ridiculous that the health department of Punjab failed to check supply of contaminated medicine to pharmacies. Immediate action should be taken to remove such over the counter medicines from the market.