Islamabad: Al-Shifa Trust Eye Hospital has provided medical care to over 15,000 flood victims in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa this month, offering vital support to those affected by Pakistan’s devastating 2025 floods.
Eight emergency medical camps were set up by the Rawalpindi-based organization in Swat, Buner, Swabi, Sambrial, Sialkot, Narowal, Wazirabad, and Kasur. These locations offered eye checkups, general medical consultations, and urgent care to individuals whose access to healthcare was disrupted by the disaster.
The floods have tragically taken 900 lives, including 255 children, and impacted over five million people. Displaced families face challenges such as inadequate shelter, food scarcity, and unsafe water, putting the elderly and children at particular risk.
Recognizing the urgent need, Al-Shifa Trust President Maj. Gen. (Retd.) Rehmat Khan initiated the relief effort. Dr. Najam, General Manager of Al-Shifa Centre for Community Ophthalmology (ACCO), reported a high incidence of allergic conjunctivitis, viral eye infections, keratitis, and bacterial infections due to contaminated water and poor sanitation.
More severe ailments, potentially linked to contaminated water, such as acanthamoeba keratitis and leptospirosis, were also observed. The organization distributed over 2,000 eyeglasses, eye medications, and screened over 3,000 people for diabetes and hypertension. Additionally, they provided 2,500 food parcels and 3,500 water purification tablets. Over 5,200 patients were treated in KPK and nearly 9,800 in Punjab.
Leveraging its network of eye hospitals, Al-Shifa Trust is extending its reach to isolated areas. Plans are underway to deploy mobile clinics equipped with necessary supplies and personnel in the coming weeks. This exemplifies the private sector’s role in disaster relief.
Beyond medical assistance, the organization is working with community leaders to spread awareness about preventing waterborne diseases and eye infections, distributing educational resources on hygiene and safety. This holistic strategy aims to both treat and empower communities in their post-disaster recovery.