Kalahandi Ambulance Breakdown Claims Young Life, Two Suspended

Kalahandi district witnessed a tragic incident when an 11‑year‑old girl, Riya Nayak of Tulapada village, died after the ambulance transferring her broke down en route to the district hospital.

Riya was admitted to Narla CHC with high fever and severe stomach pain. As her condition worsened, a transfer request was made at 9:32 am.

The ambulance dispatched at 9:37 am arrived at 10:01 am but suffered a tyre puncture near Chatikuda. The spare tyre also failed, leaving the patient stranded.

A second ambulance was sent at 10:36 am and reached at 11:11 am, but by the time Riya arrived at the district hospital, doctors declared her “brought dead.”

The incident sparked outrage over emergency healthcare services in the district. In response, the ambulance driver and cluster leader were suspended pending inquiry.

The agency has assured disciplinary action after the investigation concludes.