Odisha CM launches 26 new (BLS) ambulances under 108 ambulance service
Bhubaneswar: Hon’ble CM has dedicated 26 new Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances to the people of the State today at Naveen Niwas, Bhubaneswar.
The 108 Emergency Medical Ambulance Service was launched in the State on 5th March 2013 and presently is operated with a fleet of 624 vehicles covering all 30 districts, providing emergency medical service, free of cost to the people. The fleet has 213 “Basic Life Support” (BLS), 411 “Advanced Life Support” (ALS) ambulances and 6 boat ambulances.
In addition to the 108 Emergency Ambulance Service, the State has in position a fleet of 500 ambulances under Janani Express for transportation of pregnant mothers and sick infants.
Daily, more than 4000 patients are transferred to hospitals through the 108 and Janani Express ambulance service in the State. In order to further improve the performance of Emergency ambulance Service in the State, phase-wise new ambulances are being provided to replace the old ambulances.
Speaking on this occasion, Sri Sabyasachi Biswal, State Head, Ziqitza Healthcare Ltd(The agency operating 108 ambulance service in the Odisha) said, “Saving lives during health emergency is top most priority for us. As our journey with unwavering commitment for patient care continues, we are delighted to announce addition of 26 new ambulance to our fleet, dedicated by honorable Chief Minister of Odisha Shri Naveen Patnaik. This momentous occasion marks as a significant step to ensure good health and wellbeing of the community. These new BLS ambulances will enhance our capability to deliver instant patient care and improve the performance of emergency ambulance service in the state.”
In the current phase, 26 new BLS ambulances have been procured and fitted with equipment along with branding etc, @ of Rs. 42 Lakhs per ambulance and a total cost implication of around Rs. 10.92 Crores for 26 ambulances. The total Capital Expenditure of 26 ambulances is funded under the State Budget.
