Odisha CM Flags Off 250 New ‘108’ Ambulances, Strengthening Emergency Healthcare Network
Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today flagged off 250 new “108” ambulances at Kalinga Stadium, marking a significant expansion of the state’s emergency healthcare services.
This rollout is part of an Rs 111 crore investment, bringing the total number of newly procured ambulances to 428—150 were launched in December, and 250 more joined the fleet today.
With this addition, Odisha now operates 866 emergency ambulances alongside 500 Janani Express vehicles dedicated to transporting pregnant women and sick children.
The Chief Minister emphasised that the initiative aims to reduce mortality by ensuring patients reach hospitals quickly.
The new fleet will enhance accessibility from block-level hospitals to district headquarters and SCB Medical College, Cuttack. Ambulances will also be stationed at airstrips in Rourkela and Jeypore to support aviation-linked emergency plans.
Currently, over 5,000 patients are transported daily through the ambulance network.
Advanced Life Support (ALS) units have been deployed at airports and Jharsuguda Cancer Hospital to provide specialised care during transit.
Health Minister Dr Mukesh Mahaling, Ekamra MLA Babu Singh, Health Commissioner Ashwathi S, and NHM Director Dr. Brunda D attended the flag-off ceremony.
