ICRC Delegation Visits Paraplegic Center Peshawar, Praises Orthotic Prosthetics and Rehabilitation Services

Peshawar, April 9, 2025 – Mr. Bruno Radicchi, Head of the Sub-Delegation of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), led a team from the Physical Rehabilitation Program (PRP) on a significant visit to the Paraplegic Center Peshawar (PCP) on Wednesday. The delegation was warmly received by Dr. Syed Mohammad Ilyas, CEO of PCP, who provided an in-depth briefing on the center’s history, mission, and the wide array of medical and rehabilitative services it offers to patients across Pakistan.

The visit included a comprehensive tour of the facility, guided by Dr. Amir Zaib, Director of Physical Rehabilitation. The delegation explored key departments such as Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, the Orthotics and Prosthetics Workshop, Nursing Services, Psychosocial Support, and Sports Rehabilitation. These departments collectively showcase PCP’s holistic approach to supporting individuals with spinal cord injuries and other disabilities.

Mr. Radicchi expressed profound admiration for the center’s operations, describing it as a “unique institution” that meets global standards of discipline, transparency, humanitarian service, and compassion. “The Paraplegic Center Peshawar stands as a model for the region, delivering comprehensive physical and psychological rehabilitation with remarkable dedication,” he stated. He particularly commended the “missionary zeal” of the staff, crediting Dr. Ilyas’s leadership for fostering an environment of excellence and empathy.

During discussions, the ICRC delegation reaffirmed its commitment to supporting PCP’s efforts, particularly in the manufacturing of orthotic devices. They pledged to continue supplying essential rare foreign materials critical for production and expressed readiness to renew the existing partnership agreement if needed. This ongoing collaboration underscores the strong bond between the ICRC and PCP in advancing rehabilitation services in Pakistan.

The visit highlighted PCP’s impressive advancements in both orthotic aids and prosthetic limb production, reflecting the staff’s skill, professionalism, and unwavering commitment. Beyond technical expertise, Mr. Radicchi noted that PCP serves as a multifaceted institution, not only restoring physical mobility but also empowering individuals with disabilities to achieve independence, secure employment, and reintegrate into society.

The Paraplegic Center Peshawar remains a beacon of hope and innovation in Pakistan’s healthcare landscape, and this visit further solidifies its reputation as a leader in rehabilitation services. The ICRC’s continued support promises to enhance the center’s capacity to transform lives, ensuring that individuals with disabilities receive the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.