A set of videos showing a “cycle ambulance” in Pakistan sparked a wave of reactions online, with many social media users mocking the initiative without knowing the reason behind it.

The clips showed Karachi mayor Murtaza Wahab riding a bicycle with a medical bag attached at the back, which was presented as a cycle ambulance service in Karachi. Soon after the videos circulated, several users made sarcastic comments, comparing it with advanced healthcare innovations elsewhere.

One user wrote, “Welcome to the future, Pakistani version. The world is building flying ICUs. Karachi's mayor is launching a cycle ambulance,” while another wrote, “Karachi finally gets a Cycle Ambulance. After 77 years of ‘innovation’.”

Watch the videos here:

However, according to a report by Aaj news, revealed that the initiative was launched in 2025, and was designed to address a specific challenge faced by emergency responders in Karachi. It aimed to reach densely populated areas and narrow lanes where conventional ambulances often struggled to enter.

The cycle ambulance service was launched by Rescue 1122 to provide quicker access to emergency medical assistance in congested neighbourhoods. The service was operated by trained female volunteers, making it both an emergency response effort and an initiative aimed at increasing women's participation in healthcare services.

Despite their simple appearance, the cycle ambulances were equipped with essential medical supplies, including oxygen masks, sugar testing kits, nebulisers and first-aid equipment, allowing responders to provide immediate assistance before patients could be shifted to hospitals.

The initiative received appreciation from some citizens, who viewed it as a practical solution for communities where traffic congestion and narrow streets often delay emergency services.

While the visuals led to online criticism, the purpose behind the service was to make basic emergency care more accessible in areas where traditional ambulances face limitations.

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Published By:

Yashna Talwar

Published On:

Jul 21, 2026 17:00 IST