Ambulance services; lifesavers or ripoff

Ambulance services are often the difference between life and death during medical emergencies

RAWALPINDI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 25th Feb, 2026) Ambulance services are often the difference between life and death during medical emergencies.

In Rawalpindi, however, the growing number of private ambulances stationed outside major public hospitals has triggered debate over regulation, affordability and accountability.

The Punjab government has recently directed that all private ambulances including those operated by NGOs and welfare organisations must register with Rescue 1122 under the Emergency Services Act 2006. Officials say the move aims to ensure safety standards, proper equipment and trained staff in all emergency vehicles.

According to authorities, ambulances must carry essential life-saving equipment, drivers must possess valid licences and medical fitness certificates, and vehicles must meet prescribed standards. Non-compliant services may face closure, fines of up to Rs.50,000 and other legal action.

Muhammad Usman, Rescue 1122 spokesperson said the regulations apply equally to all operators. “The purpose is not to target anyone but to standardise emergency services. Law and safety requirements must be followed,” he said.

Private operators, however, argue that sudden enforcement of stricter SOPs has created operational and financial strain.

Imran Khan, representing private ambulances parked outside Benazir Bhutto Hospital, claimed that operators are being fined for tinted windows, parking issues and use of hooters. He said replacing factory-fitted tinted glass can cost around Rs.80,000 per vehicle, a significant burden for small vendors.

Operators also complain about lack of designated parking spaces near hospitals, resulting in frequent challans.

They say hiring a doctor for every ambulance, as advised, is financially unfeasible in the current economic climate.

A survey by APP outside Holy Family Hospital, Benazir Bhutto Hospital and District Headquarters Hospital showed dozens of private ambulances lined up outside emergency wards, highlighting strong demand for their services.

Bereaved families told APP that private ambulances typically charge between Rs.1000 and Rs.5,000 for intra-city transportation of bodies, while inter-city transfers can range from Rs.5,000 and above, depending on distance. Advance payment is often requested.

In comparison, a representative of the Edhi Foundation said, the organisation charges Rs.500.0 for hospital-to-hospital transfers and Rs.55.0 per Km for out-of-city travel. "However, limited fleet size sometimes results in delays", he added with condition of anonymity.

Private vendor Imran Khan said operators often wait in other cities until they secure a return client to cover fuel and accommodation expenses. “Our earnings are modest compared to operational costs,” he claimed.

While authorities insist regulation is essential to prevent misuse and ensure service quality, citizens point to insufficient government ambulances at public hospitals, leaving families with little choice but to rely on private operators.

The issue reflects a complex balance between regulation, affordability and service availability. As enforcement intensifies, stakeholders agree that a coordinated approach is crucial to protect patients and grieving families.

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