Bicycle ambulance service in Karachi: All you need to know!

In an age where air ambulances are commonly associated with emergency care, Karachi has introduced an innovative and practical solution for areas where traditional ambulances can’t go. The recently launched bicycle ambulance service, initiated by Rescue 1122, is designed specifically for the city’s densely populated and narrow streets, where larger vehicles struggle to reach.

This new service is not only a creative solution for improving emergency response times in congested localities, but it also signifies a major step toward women’s empowerment. Trained female volunteers have been deployed to operate the bicycle ambulances—an approach that is both practical and symbolic.

Despite their simple design, each bicycle ambulance is equipped with essential life-saving tools such as oxygen masks, glucose testing kits, nebulizers, and first-aid supplies, enabling volunteers to provide immediate medical help on the spot.

Brigadier (Retired) Tariq Qadir, CEO of Rescue 1122, emphasized the program’s significance by highlighting its environmental benefits and contribution to gender inclusion. He described the initiative as a “critical step in bringing primary healthcare services to marginalized communities.”

The female responders involved have voiced pride in their roles, describing a strong sense of duty and public service. Residents in affected neighborhoods have also welcomed the service, viewing it as a valuable and practical solution to improve healthcare access in under-served parts of the city.