TAXILA: Mounting public outrage over alleged overcharging at the parking and canteen facilities of Wah General Hospital has compelled the health authorities to order a high-level inquiry.

The controversy erupted after multiple complaints from patients and visitors were reported in the local press, alleging that private contractors were fleecing the public with inflated charges under the administration’s watch.

Taking notice of the issue, Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner Dr Hassan Waqar Cheema directed Assistant Commissioner Taxila Maria Javed to visit the hospital and stop the contractor from collecting parking fees.

He also ordered the formation of an independent probe panel to uncover the facts and fix responsibility.

According to the notification, the committee, headed by the deputy district health officer Taxila as convener, will include the medical superintendent of THQ Taxila and any other member deemed necessary. Officials have been tasked with completing the investigation promptly, identifying those involved and ensuring they face strict legal consequences.

Hospital visitors have long complained about what they describe as “unchecked exploitation” at the facility’s parking and food services, with some alleging collusion between contractors and certain elements within the management. “This is not just about money, it’s about trust in public healthcare,” remarked Khalid Khan, a patient’s attendant, while speaking to Dawn.

When contacted, Assistant Commissioner Taxila Maria Javed confirmed that, on the directives of district authorities, she visited Wah General Hospital and stopped the contractor from collecting parking fees from patients and attendants until further orders.

She added that the committee would probe the award of the contract and rationalise the parking fee.

Published in Dawn, August 11th, 2025