The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Health Department has ordered all the hospitals and basic health units (BHUs) to remain open round the clock during the first 10 days of Muharram.

According to a statement issued on Monday, the department has directed health centres to expand service to the proximity of Imran Bargahs and to also cope with situations arising due to the rush of people gathered for mourning.

The provincial government has also ordered the setting up of emergency control rooms at the directorate and district levels. All medical staff including doctors, nurses, and supporting staff are instructed to ensure their presence during Muharram.

In case of any untoward happening, the government has promised to provide all necessary medicines and equipment to the hospital emergency departments besides extending “full cooperation” to the district administration.

The compliance institutes have also been directed to submit reports on the implementation of guidelines issued by the Health Department.