Emergency shelters in Swabi, Haripur

Relief shelters set up in 62 schools; hospitals prepare for any emergency

PESHAWAR:

In response to escalating war hysteria from India, the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government has established emergency relief shelters in 62 schools across Haripur and Swabi districts. Alongside this move, a complete ban has been imposed on all types of events and activities in both public and private educational institutions.

According to official sources, under the directives of the Education Department, the District Education Officers of Haripur and Swabi have submitted detailed reports to their respective deputy commissioners, listing the schools designated as emergency relief shelters.

A total of 40 schools in Swabi and 22 in Haripur have been earmarked for this purpose. The department has also appointed focal persons to oversee shelter operations and coordination.

In a separate notification, the Education Department has instructed all educational boards and institutions to strictly prohibit any kind of gatherings or events, including sports activities.

Additionally, schools have been directed to initiate civil defense training and preparedness among students as part of precautionary measures.

Authorities have emphasized that these steps are preventive and aimed at ensuring public safety in the current climate of uncertainty.

Meanwhile, the K-P government has cancelled all medical staff leaves and issued an emergency red alert across all hospitals.

The Health Department has instructed all hospitals and related institutions and centers to remain fully prepared.

According to the circular issued in this regard, hospitals must maintain readiness under the Provincial Contingency Framework.

All major and minor hospitals, BHUs (Basic Health Units), and trauma centers are to keep their emergency response plans active.

Arrangements should be made in medical facilities to deal with mass casualties.

All blood care units must ensure the supply of antibiotics, surgical expertise, and burn care materials.

A 24-hour roster for all doctors and paramedical staff should be prepared so that they remain available for timely contact.

A psychological support team should also be kept ready to manage stress and trauma among the medical staff.

Sources said that the major hospitals in the province have also issued special instructions to their relevant staff in this regard, including reviewing the stock of medicines, availability of medical staff, and other facilities.

Within hospitals, preparations have begun to enable staff to deal with mass emergencies and to ensure their readiness.