411 ventilators available in Punjab’s district hospitals, LHC told

The Lahore High Court (LHC) was informed on Friday that 411 ventilators are currently available in district hospitals across Punjab

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th Feb, 2026) The Lahore High Court (LHC) was informed on Friday that 411 ventilators are currently available in district hospitals across Punjab.

The information was shared in a report submitted by Director General Health Services Punjab, Dr. Naveed Akhtar Malik, before Justice Malik Muhammad Awais Khalid, who was hearing a petition filed by the Judicial Activism Panel concerning deaths caused by measles.

According to the report, 330 measles cases have been reported so far this year. It further stated that 4,000 measles cases were recorded last year, while 6,747 cases were reported in 2024. The report also highlighted the availability of cold chain equipment for the provision of vaccines to the community.

However, the court observed that it should be informed about the per capita requirement of ventilators as an essential medical necessity.

Justice Malik Muhammad Awais Khalid directed that if any shortage exists, the matter should be brought to the notice of the government.

The court adjourned further hearing of the case and directed the Secretary Primary and Secondary Healthcare Punjab and the Secretary Specialized Healthcare to appear in person after Eid. The court also sought detailed information regarding the number of monkeypox patients and the measures taken by the health authorities in this regard.

In its petition, the Judicial Activism Panel contended that a large number of deaths occurred due to the non-availability of ventilators in hospitals. The petitioner argued that many lives could have been saved if basic healthcare facilities had been available and urged the court to order an inquiry into the measles-related deaths.