In a significant move to bolster disaster management capabilities, the Aga Khan University's Centre of Excellence for Trauma and Emergencies (AKU-CETE) orchestrated a comprehensive large-scale disaster simulation drill in Shaheed Benazirabad. This critical exercise was executed in partnership with Weill Cornell Medicine from the United States, highlighting an international collaboration aimed at enhancing emergency response protocols.
Collaborative Efforts and Key Objectives
The drill received robust support from multiple local and provincial authorities, including the Deputy Commissioner of Shaheed Benazirabad, the District Health Officer, the Peoples University of Medical and Health Sciences (PUMHS), the Sindh Integrated Emergency and Health Services (SIEHS), the Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), and the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA). The primary goal was to evaluate and improve the prompt and effective response of emergency institutions during major incidents, such as simulated building collapses, ensuring timely medical assistance in real-world disasters.
Real-Time Preparedness and Coordination
Focusing on real-time emergency preparedness, the exercise aimed to identify existing gaps and foster better coordination among various departments. Participants included rescue personnel, healthcare workers, security forces, and trained community volunteers, who acted as injured individuals and bystanders. This hands-on approach allowed for a thorough assessment of casualty management processes from the incident site to hospitals, inter-agency communication, and the delivery of quality medical care.
Insights from Leadership and Future Implications
Dr. Junaid Razzak, Director of AKU-CETE, emphasized the importance of measurement in effective management, stating that this drill serves as a crucial tool for assessing disaster preparedness. He noted that such exercises are expected to strengthen the health system, particularly in scenarios involving mass casualties. The drill also validated the City Assessment of Mass Casualty Emergency Response and Preparedness (CAMERA) tool, a data-driven framework designed to evaluate a city's readiness for disasters.
Based on the outcomes, practical recommendations will be developed for district and provincial authorities to guide future planning and equitable resource allocation. Shaheed Benazirabad is the first of five cities where this program has been launched, marking a step toward long-term enhancement of emergency response systems across Pakistan. Importantly, no real patients were involved, and safety officers ensured the protection of all participants throughout the exercise.
