Peshawar:
The University of Peshawar has officially directed Rescue 1122 to vacate its station located within the university premises, a decision that has sparked serious concerns among students, faculty, and residents of the surrounding areas.
In a letter issued by the Directorate of Administration, the university cited the need to establish a security checkpoint and enhance campus traffic management as primary reasons for the relocation. The administration stated that the presence of a rescue station with fire trucks and emergency operations was not suitable for the academic environment.
However, this move has been strongly opposed by Rescue 1122, which has expressed deep concern over the relocation, warning that it could severely impact emergency response times and put lives at risk. In an official response, the District Emergency Officer highlighted that the Rescue 1122 station at the University of Peshawar has been playing a critical role in providing free-of-cost, international-standard emergency services, including medical aid, fire response, and road accident management, within a 7-minute response time.
The officer further emphasized that the strategic location of the Rescue 1122 station on campus ensures timely medical assistance for students, faculty, and residents in the event of accidents, fire emergencies, or other critical incidents. If the station is vacated or relocated, he warned, the safety of thousands could be compromised.
Students and faculty members have also voiced their concerns, urging the university administration to reconsider the decision. Many argue that removing the rescue service from campus would leave the university vulnerable in case of emergencies.
Despite the concerns raised, the university has suggested an alternative location near the residential area to ensure academic activities remain undisturbed. However, Rescue 1122 has urged authorities to rethink their decision and ensure the continuation of uninterrupted emergency services for the safety and well-being of the university community.
The final decision now rests with the administration, but the fate of emergency response services at the University of Peshawar remains uncertain.
