Ehsaas Panagah (Shelter Homes)
Providing Shelter, Meals, and Dignity to Daily Wage Earners
Panagah is one of the flagship welfare programs launched under the Ehsaas initiative by the Prime Minister of Pakistan. These shelter homes are designed to serve the most vulnerable segments of society—especially daily wage earners—by offering a safe place to sleep and two nutritious meals a day, completely free of cost.
A Vision Rooted in Compassion and Dignity
Inspired by the Prime Minister’s vision of a compassionate welfare state, the concept of Panagah ensures that the destitute, homeless, and helpless receive assistance without compromising their self-respect. More than just a roof and food, each Panagah is a space where dignity, care, and basic human needs are prioritized.
High-Standard Facilities Across Pakistan
To reach those who need help the most, 39 model Panagahs have been established in low-income neighborhoods and migrant worker residential areas. Each shelter includes:
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100-bed overnight stay facility
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Free meals for up to 500 people daily
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Star+ quality bed & breakfast services
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Clean linens and hot water bathrooms
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24/7 security and CCTV surveillance
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Dining halls with shift-based meal service
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Laundry, housekeeping, and on-site mosques
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Backup electricity to ensure uninterrupted service
All operations are regularly monitored to ensure hygiene, safety, and hospitality standards are maintained.
Quality Training for Panagah Staff
In collaboration with Serena Hotels, specialized training has been provided to Panagah staff. The training covers:
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Hospitality management
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Food safety and hygiene
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Health, safety, and environmental standards
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Professional housekeeping
This training is part of a larger quality enhancement plan aimed at making Panagahs truly world-class in service.
Serving Capacity of the Ehsaas Panahgah Program (Musafir Khana)
The Ehsaas Panahgah Program isn’t just another government initiative—it’s a much-needed step toward supporting the most vulnerable people in our society. For years, we’ve seen countless individuals sleeping on footpaths, at bus stands, railway stations, and wherever they could find a spot to rest.
But now, things are changing for the better.
Thanks to the Ehsaas Panahgah Program, those in need can now sleep in a clean, comfortable environment—on a proper bed, under a safe roof. Each shelter is equipped with over 100 beds, giving around 100 people a chance to rest peacefully each night. And it doesn’t stop there. The program also provides hot, nutritious meals, serving up to 400 people per day.
Imagine waking up to a warm meal without spending a single rupee. It’s a big deal—especially for someone who has nothing. For the first time, many homeless individuals are finally getting the care and dignity they deserve.
There’s just one rule: you can stay for a maximum of three days. But if you’re from another city and need a few more days while looking for work, you can simply talk to the shelter’s administration. In many cases, they’ll extend your stay without any issue.
Ehsaas Panahgah Timings
If you’ve just arrived in a city and have nowhere to go, don’t worry. The Ehsaas Panahgah program is a free and reliable solution—no need to spend on hotels or apartments.
Here’s everything you need to know about the daily schedule:
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Check-In Timing: Try to arrive before 9:00 PM to register and get your bed. If you’re late, don’t panic—just speak to the manager, and they’ll do their best to accommodate you.
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Breakfast (Summer): Served from 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM
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Breakfast (Winter): Served from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM
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Dinner (Winter): Served from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
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Dinner (Summer): Served from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Stick to these timings and you’ll be just fine. Wake up early, enjoy breakfast, and head to your job or wherever you need to be.
And if there’s ever a medical emergency, the Panahgah will take care of you. All expenses—including hospital bills—will be covered by the program.
It truly is a complete care package for those who need it the most.
Funding and Management
Each Panagah has its own dedicated bank account. While Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal oversees management, funding comes from the government for essentials. Donations are also welcomed, allowing the public to contribute to sustaining these vital shelters.
New Model Panagahs Under Construction
To expand outreach, four new model Panagahs are being built in Tarlai, Tarnol, G-9, and Mandi More areas of Islamabad. These will feature:
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Larger kitchens and cold storage
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Modern reception, lobbies, and waiting areas
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Increased food and shelter capacity
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Integrated Ehsaas One Window Centers for easy access to welfare services
These upgraded shelters are designed not just as places of rest, but as entry points for long-term support and empowerment.
Ehsaas Panahgah Program – Check Online Details
The Ehsaas Panahgah Program is one of Pakistan’s most compassionate social welfare initiatives, launched by the Government of Tehreek-e-Insaf. Its mission is simple yet powerful—to provide free food, shelter, and basic facilities to those who are homeless and struggling across the country.
Shelter homes, known as Panahgahs, have been set up in major cities nationwide to offer a safe, clean, and respectful environment to people in need—whether they’re daily wage laborers, street dwellers, or individuals facing financial hardships or natural disasters.
But the support goes beyond just a roof over your head. Each Panahgah also serves warm daily meals and provides access to medical care. The program is run with the help of local NGOs, philanthropists, and private organizations, ensuring these services are managed with care and efficiency.
What truly sets the Ehsaas Program apart is its long-term vision. It doesn’t just stop at giving temporary relief. It also helps individuals rebuild their lives—through skill training, job assistance, and other support services designed to reintegrate them into society. It’s a step toward lasting change.
How the Ehsaas Panahgah Program Began
In countries like Pakistan, India, and Nepal, poverty is unfortunately a widespread challenge. Many people can’t afford even the most basic necessity: a place to call home. This leaves thousands of people sleeping on streets, in bus terminals, near shrines, railway stations, or anywhere they can rest for the night.
That’s why, in 2017, Imran Khan—often referred to by supporters as the “Man of Steel”—introduced the Ehsaas Panahgah Program. It was the first initiative of its kind in Pakistan and quickly became a beacon of hope for those who had nowhere else to go.
When the program started, there were only 5 shelter homes. But thanks to its success and the public’s overwhelming support, it has now expanded to 34 permanent Panahgahs across various cities. In addition to these, there are over 100 temporary Panahgahs operating to meet local needs during special events, emergencies, and seasonal demands.
How to Apply for the Ehsaas Panahgah Program
Applying for a stay at an Ehsaas Panahgah is simple and hassle-free. There’s no need to fill out long forms or go through complex procedures.
Just start by locating the nearest Panahgah in your city. Once you reach the shelter, head over to the Help Desk inside the facility. A staff member will guide you through a quick registration process.
They’ll ask you basic questions—like where you’re coming from and how long you plan to stay. You’ll also be asked to show your CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card) for identity verification.
To be eligible, you either need to be homeless or from another city without a place to stay. Once your identity is confirmed, you’ll be given a clean bed to sleep in and two free meals a day—dinner and breakfast. It’s that simple.
Ehsaas Panahgah Contact Number
If you still have questions or need help before visiting, you can contact the Ehsaas Panahgah support team directly. Although it’s always better to visit in person, here’s the contact number if you need to call:
Whether you need shelter for a night or some warmth during tough times, Ehsaas Panahgah is here to help—with dignity and care.
Ehsaas Panagah (Shelter Homes) FAQs
Ehsaas Panahgah Shelter Homes Location
Ehsaas Panahgahs are located in all major cities of Pakistan, including Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, Peshawar, and Multan. These shelters provide safe, clean spaces for the homeless.
Ehsaas Panahgah Shelter Homes Address
To find a specific Ehsaas Panahgah address, visit the nearest city help desk or check local listings online. Each shelter has a reception for walk-in assistance and guidance.
Ehsaas Panahgah Shelter Homes Islamabad
Islamabad hosts several Ehsaas Panahgahs including at Tarnol, G-9, and PIMS areas. They offer overnight shelter, daily meals, and basic medical care to the needy.
Panah Gah Near Me
Use your smartphone’s location or visit the official Ehsaas site to find the closest Panah Gah near you. Walk-ins are welcome with minimal verification.
Panah Gah Rawalpindi Address
In Rawalpindi, Panahgahs are located near Raja Bazaar, Committee Chowk, and adjacent to major hospitals for easy access to those in need.
Shelter Home in Karachi
Karachi’s Ehsaas Panahgahs serve hundreds daily in areas like Landhi, Korangi, and near Civil Hospital, providing food, shelter, and safety.
Shelter Home Near Me
Search “Shelter Home Near Me” on Google Maps or visit your district’s social welfare office to locate the nearest Ehsaas Panahgah.
Shelter Home in Rawalpindi
Rawalpindi offers multiple shelter homes under the Ehsaas program. These are well-maintained facilities providing free meals, clean bedding, and temporary accommodation.
Events
PM Unveils Plan for Purpose-Built Ehsaas Panagahs in Islamabad
On December 22, 2021, Prime Minister Imran Khan unveiled a transformative plan to construct purpose-built Ehsaas Panagahs in Islamabad. This initiative marked a major milestone in Pakistan’s journey toward becoming a true welfare state, where the poor and laborers are treated with dignity and compassion.
These new shelter homes (Panagahs) are not just places to sleep—they’re designed to offer a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for daily wage earners, homeless individuals, and travelers who need a place to rest and a meal to eat. Each Panagah reflects the government’s unwavering commitment to social protection and care for the most vulnerable.
Panagahs: A Step Toward a Welfare State
The Ehsaas Panagah project is one of the most impactful programs launched under the broader Ehsaas umbrella, providing free meals and accommodation to the needy across Pakistan. It embodies the Prime Minister’s vision of an inclusive society where no one sleeps hungry or without shelter.
Voices from the Ground – Mazdoor Ka Ehsaas
The real impact of Panagahs comes to life through the voices of those who benefit from them:
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Ehsanul Haq Shah from Abbottabad, now working in Islamabad, shared how the Panagah helps him survive the city life with dignity.
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Muhammad Sohail from Attock, a daily wage laborer, finds hope and a warm meal every day through the facility.
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Saleem Khan from Lakki Marwat expressed his gratitude for having a clean, safe place to rest after work.
These stories are part of the “Mazdoor Ka Ehsaas” video series—testimonials of workers who finally feel seen, heard, and cared for.
Key Visits & Developments
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January 1, 2021 – PM inaugurated a 100-bed Panagah and Langar in the Tarnol area of Islamabad.
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October 15, 2020 – The PM visited the newly remodeled Panagah at G-9 Islamabad, emphasizing maintenance and service quality.
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September 7, 2020 – Another significant visit was made to the Tarlai Panagah, showcasing improvements in both accommodation and meal services.
These events show the government’s continued hands-on approach to ensure the facilities operate at the highest standards.
Videos
Panahgahs – An important step towards the Prime Minister’s vision of a welfare state
Mazdoor ka Ehsaas – Ehsanul Haq Shah hails from Abbottabad and is a laborer in Islamabad.
Mazdoor ka Ehsaas- Muhammad Sohail is from Attock and works as a laborer in Islamabad.
Mazdoor ka Ehsaas- Saleem Khan is from Lucky Marwat
Mazdoor Ka Ehsaas
Mazdoor Ka Ehsaas
Ehsaas Stories: Testimonials of Change
Many people who once slept on footpaths or in open parks now have a place to call temporary home. The Ehsaas Stories video series features heartwarming testimonials about the shelter homes’ impact—from free food to a renewed sense of self-worth.
