SUKKUR:An awareness seminar and panel discussion to mark World Trauma Day was organized by the District Council Sukkur at the Arts Council Sukkur here on Thursday.
Chairman District Council Sukkur Syed Kumail Haider Shah was the chief guest, while Commissioner Sukkur Division Abid Saleem Qureshi was the guest of honour.
The event brought together government officials, doctors, rescue personnel, students and journalists to discuss trauma prevention, emergency response and road safety.
Panelists included trauma surgeon Dr. Fiza Iftikhar Ahmed, Director Trauma Centre Sukkur Dr. Mahmood Qureshi, Director Health Services Dr. Farukh Imtiaz Bhanbhro, Director Rescue 1122 Col (Retd) Ghulam Mustafa Odho, DIG Sukkur Nasir Aftab, Motorway Police DSP Iftikhar Ahmed, Director Edhi Centre Gul Mehr, Dr. Ahmed Khubair, and Chief Officer District Council Zafar Iqbal Mughal.
Addressing the seminar, Commissioner Abid Saleem Qureshi stressed the need for collective responsibility to save lives during trauma and emergencies. He said injured persons must be given immediate first aid and Rescue 1122 and police informed without delay. He called for strict compliance with traffic laws and organizing awareness seminars in educational institutions.
Chairman District Council Syed Kumail Haider Shah said a 50-bed trauma centre has been established in Sukkur while a 500-bed trauma centre is planned for Rohri to strengthen emergency healthcare in the region. He said the Sindh government has activated Rescue 1122 and the District Council has launched an air ambulance service for Sukkur, Khairpur and Ghotki districts.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Fiza Iftikhar Ahmed said that after Karachi, a trauma centre is functioning in Sukkur but facilities need further improvement. She emphasized timely rescue, immediate medical aid and prompt shifting of victims to hospitals. The panel highlighted the need for better coordination among health departments, police, motorway police, Rescue 1122 and Edhi services for effective emergency response. Participants also questioned officials about rescue operations.
At the conclusion, the District Council presented honorary shields to the guests, while Dr. Fiza presented her awareness book on trauma.