LAHORE: The Punjab government’s recent decision to relocate the orthopaedic surgery and neurosurgery units from Nishtar Hospital to the newly functionalised Tertiary Care Hospital Nishtar-II has ignited a wave of protests and concerns among doctors, the public and politicians in Multan.

The Punjab Specialised Healthcare and Medical Education Department announced the functionalisation of Tertiary Care Hospital Nishtar-II on July 25, 2024, and directed the relocation of the orthopaedic surgery unit-II (Ward No.21) and half of the neurosurgery department from Nishtar Hospital to Nishtar-II.

The vice chancellor of Nishtar Medical University, Multan, was tasked with ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted transition.

The doctors challenged the decision in the Lahore High Court Multan Bench and a stay order was issued previously. However, the government succeeded in recalling the order of the court.

In compliance with the vice chancellor’s order dated Feb 24, 2025, the heads of various departments were requested to provide the names and designations of officers and officials for the relocation. The medical superintendent of Nishtar Hospital issued an office order on Feb 26, 2025, listing the staff members directed to report for duty at Nishtar-II.

However, the decision has faced significant backlash from the medical community and the public.

The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) staged a protest at Nishtar Hospital, joined by young doctors, paramedics and nurses.

The protesters argued that Nishtar-II should have its own staff and budget and that closing departments at Nishtar Hospital would make it difficult to transport accident victims to the new facility, which is far from the city.

Patients and their relatives, who have been waiting for operations for days, also participated in the protest, expressing frustration at being told to travel 25 kilometers away.

Politicians from the Pakistan People’s Party Parliamentarians (PPPP) have also voiced their concerns.

PPP provincial parliamentary leader Syed Ali Haider Gilani urged the government to reconsider the decision.

He highlighted the challenges that the local population would face due to the transfer of these crucial departments and emphasised the need for complete staffing and facilities at both hospitals.

Gilani called for the Nishtar phase-II to be constructed as originally planned, with no reduction in the promised 1000 beds.

He also appealed for a visit from Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to assess the situation firsthand.

The relocation has sparked a broader debate about healthcare infrastructure and resource allocation in south Punjab. As the controversy continues, the government faces mounting pressure to address the concerns of the medical community and the public while ensuring uninterrupted service delivery at both hospitals.

Published in Dawn, March 4th, 2025