The Punjab government will inaugurate the Nawaz Sharif Institute of Cancer Treatment and Research in Lahore on July 31, 2026.
The development will mark a major step in the provincial government’s plan to expand public-sector cancer treatment.
Officials informed Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz that Packages A and B of the hospital project would be completed by July 31. The provincial government then approved the same date for its inauguration.
The institute is being constructed in Valencia Town, Lahore. Its location provides access from major roads, including routes connected to the motorway and Lahore Ring Road.
Hospital to Offer Free Cancer Treatment
The Punjab government has described the facility as Pakistan’s first fully government-run cancer hospital.
Authorities plan to provide free treatment to cancer patients, including those suffering from stage three and stage four cancer.
The government has said patients from Punjab and other provinces will also be able to receive treatment at the institute.
Once fully completed, the hospital will have a planned capacity of 915 beds. The government is developing the project in phases.
The complete project is estimated to cost around Rs. 75 billion.
Cancer Treatment and Research Facilities
The Nawaz Sharif Institute of Cancer Treatment and Research will bring diagnostic, treatment and recovery services together on one campus.
The project includes a main hospital building and a specialised clinic offering diagnostic services, chemotherapy, radiology, pharmacy services and bone marrow treatment.
Plans also include pediatric oncology services, operation theatres, intensive care units and 10 radiation therapy bunkers.
Moreover, the hospital will have a 30-bed emergency department and a hospice facility for patients requiring palliative care.
The campus will also include accommodation for doctors and staff, an energy centre and other supporting facilities.
Recruitment Underway for Doctors and Staff
The Punjab government has already started recruiting clinical and non-clinical employees for the institute.
Positions advertised by the authorities include specialists in radiation oncology and other medical disciplines, along with administrative and support roles.
The government also plans to operate the institute through a digital and paperless system. Officials believe the system will improve transparency, record management and hospital efficiency.
The project was formally launched after Maryam Nawaz laid its foundation stone in October 2024.
Stay Connected with ProPakistani
Get the latest news and stories wherever you prefer.
Add ProPakistani to Preferred Sources and see more of our stories in Google Search and Top Stories.
