As India-Pakistan tensions continue to escalate, the Punjab government has cancelled all leaves for healthcare workers across the state and placed emergency medical services on high alert.
Following the cancellation of police personnel leaves earlier this week, district health administrations have now directed all doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff to remain stationed at their assigned posts and be prepared for any eventuality. No leave will be granted without prior approval from district headquarters.
The order comes after blackout drills and heightened military activity were reported in several Punjab districts, including Tarn Taran, Pathankot, and Amritsar, on Thursday night. Health authorities have been instructed to ensure the availability of critical supplies, such as life-saving medicines, first aid kits, and fully-equipped operation theatres.
“All healthcare infrastructure—government and private—must remain on standby, and blood banks are to maintain adequate reserves,” the government circular stated. The administration is also compiling a directory of medical facilities and chemical industries along with emergency contact details.
In coordination with the transport department, 2,000 buses and trucks have been placed on standby for rapid mobilization if required.
Meanwhile, Punjab Police have ramped up surveillance around strategic installations and intensified night patrols. Close coordination with the Army and intelligence agencies is underway, with all Station House Officers (SHOs) required to deliver minute-by-minute updates, especially from border areas.
This proactive move is part of a broader readiness strategy as India maintains a high state of alert following missile strikes on terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
