In a landmark step, the Punjab government has launched a free, state-run deceased transport service, making it the first province in Pakistan to introduce such an initiative. The “Deceased Care Service” was inaugurated by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Monday, with the aim of easing the burden on grieving families.
Initial Rollout in Major Cities
The service has been launched in its first phase across Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi. Under this initiative, bodies of deceased individuals will be transported from government hospitals to their homes free of cost.
According to official details, the service will gradually expand to all tehsils across Punjab by June, ensuring wider access for citizens across the province.
Dedicated Ambulances and 24/7 Availability
Each tehsil will be equipped with dedicated ambulances operating under the Deceased Care Service. The chief minister personally handed over keys of the vehicles designated for the initial cities and reviewed the fleet during the launch ceremony.
The service will be available round the clock and can be accessed by calling 1122. Trained and uniformed drivers will be stationed at government hospitals, where dedicated service desks will also be established to assist families.
Focus on Compassion and Public Service
Maryam Nawaz emphasized that supporting bereaved families is not only a government responsibility but also a humanitarian duty. She directed staff to serve with compassion, sincerity, and professionalism.
In addition to transportation, rescue personnel have been instructed to provide emotional support and basic counselling to families dealing with loss.
Measures Against Exploitation
Highlighting existing challenges, the chief minister pointed out that private transporters often charge excessive fees during such situations. She strictly instructed rescue staff not to accept any payments, even if offered voluntarily, ensuring that the service remains completely free and transparent.
“پاکستان میں پہلی بار سرکاری سطح پر باقاعدہ میت منتقلی سروس، عوام خدمت میں پنجاب کا نیا اعزاز”
⭕: وزیراعلیٰ مریم نواز شریف نے پاکستان کی پہلی سرکاری ”میت منتقلی سروس“کا آغاز کر دیا
⭕: میت منتقلی سروس کی پہلے فیز میں لاہور،ملتان اور روالپنڈی کےسرکاری ہسپتالوں سے تکریم کے ساتھ… pic.twitter.com/hotEnL5OzA
— PMLN (@pmln_org) April 13, 2026
Expansion and Future Plans
Punjab Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique described the initiative as a significant step toward public welfare. He confirmed that, in its current phase, the service will operate within city limits of Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi.
Future plans include expanding the service to other cities and potentially integrating private ambulances in later phases to enhance coverage.
Efficient Monitoring System
Director General Rescue Services Dr Rizwan Naseer stated that operations will be monitored through a smart rescue management and dispatch system to ensure efficiency, accountability, and timely response.
The service will also facilitate the transfer of bodies to hospital morgues when required, further streamlining post-death arrangements.
The launch of the Deceased Care Service marks a significant welfare initiative by the Punjab government, addressing a sensitive yet often overlooked need. By providing free and dignified transport for the deceased, the program aims to offer both practical assistance and emotional support to families during their most difficult moments.
