KARACHI, Nov 13: Sindh Health Department is planning to launch a well-equipped boat-ambulance to meet emergency health needs of the people living in islands scattered across coastal areas of the city.

Mohammad Noman Saigol, Advisor to Sindh chief minister on health, visiting a basic health unit and mother and child health centre at Baba Island on Thursday said the envisaged boat-ambulance would be manned by trained doctors, para-medics, besides all essential drugs and gadgets.

The advisor, on the occasion, was accompanied by Mr Wasim Akhter, CM’s advisor on Local Government, Fasial Gabol, advisor on Environment, besides Kemari Town Health Officer, Dr Ashrafuz Zaman Siddiqui and others.

Talking to the area people the Health advisor said the boat-ambulance would be directly linked with the Civil Hospital, through a wireless system, and that it would be available round the clock at the Town Health Office, to meet emergency health needs of the area people.

Mr Saigol, responding to complaints made by the people, announced a free medical camp at Baba Island on Nov 14.

While taking a round of Baba and Bhit islands, he expressed his concern regarding hygiene and cleanliness conditions, besides inappropriate sewerage arrangement available.

He also announced that health centres, operating in the islands, would remain open round the clock and availability of qualified staff would be ensured at these centres.—APP