Odisha Rolls Out 428 New Ambulances to Strengthen Emergency Care
Bhubaneswar, Dec 23: In a major push to modernise healthcare delivery, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated 150 new 108 ambulances at Kalinga Stadium today, marking the first phase of a state-wide initiative.
The Health Department has allocated Rs 111 crore to introduce 428 new ambulances across Odisha, replacing 419 outdated vehicles and two accident-damaged units.
The new fleet includes seven advanced life support (ALS) ambulances—five designated for airports and airstrips, and two dedicated to cardiac care at Jharsuguda Hospital.
Officials highlighted that the vehicles are equipped with modern medical equipment to ensure improved patient care during transit.
Currently, the 108 ambulance service transports nearly 5,000 patients daily. With the new rollout, the government aims to gradually replace the entire Emergency Medical Ambulance Service (EMAS) fleet, ensuring faster and more reliable emergency response.
Speaking at the launch, the Chief Minister emphasised that the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare accessibility and providing timely medical support to citizens.
The remaining ambulances will join service soon, further boosting emergency response capacity across the state.
The event was attended by Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Mukesh Mahaling, Ekamra Bhubaneswar MLA Babu Singh, Health Department Commissioner and Secretary Ashwathi S, and National Health Mission Director Dr Brunda D, along with senior officials and staff.
