IHHN In Partnership with Government of Balochistan Launches Yellow Infectious Waste Vehicles in Quetta and Kila Saifullah, Pakistan

QUETTA, PAKISTAN – The Indus Hospital & Health Network (IHHN), in collaboration with the Health Department, Government of Balochistan, has launched a dedicated fleet of infectious medical waste disposal vehicles. This initiative marks a significant advancement in the province’s healthcare infrastructure under the nationwide Infection Prevention & Control (IPC) Program, aimed at ensuring the safe disposal of hazardous medical materials.

These specialized yellow vehicles are a critical component of IHHN’s national IPC initiative, which has already seen successful deployments in Islamabad and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The launch in Quetta and Kila Saifullah. signifies the program’s expansion, introducing a standardized and safer system for managing healthcare waste through strategic government partnership and local capacity building.

The launch event, held at the Sikandar Jamali Auditorium Hall, Health Secretariate Balochistan brought together senior officials from the Balochistan government, IHHN leadership, and key development partners.

“Proper management of healthcare waste is not a matter of convenience; it is a cornerstone of public health and infection control,” stated BAKHT MUHAMMAD KAKAR, the Honorable Minister for Health, Balochistan. “This vital initiative led by IHHN is a decisive step toward creating a safer and healthier environment for our patients, healthcare workers, and the wider community.”

The new fleet will implement a structured system for the collection, transportation, and disposal of infectious waste, directly addressing the public health risks associated with improper handling. This effort is designed to protect frontline healthcare providers and prevent the spread of infections within communities.

“These yellow vehicles are more than just transport, they represent a complete, reliable system that has been built, tested, and now deployed to protect lives,” explained Dr. Mah Talat, Executive Director of the Community Health Directorate at IHHN. “Our goal is to establish a resilient framework that safeguards every person who interacts with the healthcare system, from the patient to the provider.”

The event also featured IPC demonstration kiosks showcasing IHHN’s comprehensive approach, including its Center of Excellence structure, IPC Mobile van units, and innovative community journalism tools demonstration designed to raise public awareness.

The launch concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, officially commissioning the vehicles for operation across Balochistan. Dr. Talat emphasized the long-term vision, stating, “Through continued collaboration with provincial health departments and national partners, we are committed to establishing a stronger, standardized waste management system across all of Pakistan.”