Lahore, Dec. 6 -- A severe shortage of qualified anaesthetists has plunged Lahore's leading government hospitals into disarray, forcing delays and cancellations of countless surgeries.

Major medical facilities, including Mayo, Jinnah, and Services hospitals, are among those hit hardest by the disruption, as reported by The Express Tribune.

According to The Express Tribune, dozens of anaesthetists employed on short-term contracts were abruptly dismissed after their extended six-month agreements expired, leaving operating theatres severely understaffed.

The sudden removal of these essential medical professionals has crippled surgical operations, restricting hospitals to performing only life-saving procedures. Administrators revealed that...