KARACHI, Sept 11: New patient-waiting area project at the paediatrics block of Civil Hospital Karachi was launched on Saturday by Sindh Health Secretary Prof Naushad Shaikh and philanthropist and businessman Salman Burney. The waiting space and access to the building housing the paediatrics block was much neglected. A ceremony to mark the commencement of project was held in paediatrics ward, which also coincided with the annual meeting of Save Our Children Trust, Civil Hospital Karachi.

The new waiting area project will be constructed with help of a pharmaceutical company, which will also provide clean environment and toilet facilities round-the-clock.

Addressing the gathering, Sindh Health Secretary Prof Naushad Shaikh lauded efforts of SOC Trust and donors and said development of this area was his dream, which he had shared with Prof Iqbal Memon.

He said that the government had lifted ban on fresh appointments in health department and soon vacancies would be filled. He urged donors not only to stick with the construction of project, but also provide staff if required so that better facilities could be provided to the poor patients.

He expressed hope that the project would be completed by December.

Earlier, Paediatrics Unit’s head and SOC trustee Prof Iqbal Memon presented annual report during the SOC Trust meeting. He also appreciated donors support in the project.

Philanthropist and businessman, Salman Burney, said that the progress of any society depended upon the physical and mental well-being of its citizens; while keeping children healthy was top priority for not just the country’s healthcare practitioner but also corporate citizen.

Later, Dr M.N. Lal presented the vote of thanks. —PPI