In a major move to improve patient safety and security in healthcare facilities, the Punjab government has made it mandatory to integrate CCTV surveillance systems in government hospitals with the Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA).
All security cameras installed in emergency departments and outpatient departments (OPDs) of hospitals under the administrative control of the Department of Specialized Health and Medical Education will now be compulsorily linked to the integrated command, control and communication network of the PSCA.
This initiative builds on the established framework of the PSCA, which already operates thousands of high-resolution cameras in major cities like Lahore to support real-time surveillance, rapid emergency response and evidence collection for law enforcement.
An official directive has been issued by the department, asking vice-chancellors of medical universities, directors, deans, executive directors, heads of institutions and medical superintendents of teaching hospitals, medical colleges, specialized institutions, nursing colleges and allied health institutions to ensure full compliance.
The hospitals have been asked to provide full cooperation and facilities to the PSCA teams in Lahore for the integration process.
Where existing CCTV infrastructure is insufficient, arrangements have been made for the installation of additional cameras to achieve comprehensive coverage.
The move aims to reduce violence against healthcare workers, deter theft or misuse of medical goods, and strengthen response mechanisms in high-traffic areas such as emergency departments and OPDs.
Officials said the move is part of the Punjab government’s broader Safe Cities project, which has gradually expanded the use of advanced surveillance technologies to enhance public safety and emergency response.
Authorities describe the initiative as a proactive measure to improve security in public health facilities, amid growing concerns over security in public hospitals.
Implementation is expected to begin quickly, with PSCA technical teams coordinating closely with hospital administrations to complete the integration process.
