Major General (Retd) Rehmat Khan, President of Al-Shifa Trust, revealed on Sunday that Pakistan faces a severe eye health crisis, with nearly two million people at risk of preventable blindness—80% of which is treatable. Speaking at the National Press Club in Islamabad, he shared that the Trust treated over 1.8 million patients last year, including 100,000 surgeries, with 83% receiving free care. The organization performs around 450-500 eye surgeries daily and conducts nearly half of the country’s corneal transplants. Khan also announced plans to build Pakistan’s largest eye hospital in Lahore, designed by an American firm, with construction set to begin in September 2025.
The Trust, which started as a small initiative in 1985, has grown into Pakistan’s leading eye care network, restoring vision for millions. Khan highlighted that 12.64 million Pakistanis, mostly women, struggle with vision-related tasks due to untreated refractive errors and diabetic retinopathy. Contributing factors include poor hygiene, pollution, financial constraints, and lack of awareness. Despite these challenges, Al-Shifa has expanded its reach, increasing daily patient capacity from 25 to 5,000 over three decades. Recent expansions, like the Chakwal hospital, now serve 650 patients daily, up from 150.
Al-Shifa’s humanitarian approach ensures free treatment for those in need while encouraging those who can afford care to contribute. The Trust also operates mobile eye camps, providing surgeries and glasses in remote areas. Dr. Najam, General Manager of the Outreach Program, reported that 1,500 free eye camps were held last year, benefiting 650,000 patients across Pakistan, including AJK and GB. Additionally, the Trust’s mobile surgical unit has treated hundreds of journalists, offering free operations, medicines, and glasses.
Khan emphasized that Al-Shifa’s mission goes beyond medical care—it combats societal barriers and economic disparities in healthcare. With new hospitals underway in Haweli Lakha and GB, the Trust continues to bridge gaps in eye care accessibility. “Our vision is to reach the unreached,” said Dr. Najam, underscoring the organization’s commitment to eliminating preventable blindness. By combining technology, compassion, and community support, Al-Shifa remains a beacon of hope for millions facing vision loss in Pakistan.