Dhenkanal, July 17,(OT Webdesk): A heartbreaking incident in Odisha’s Dhenkanal district has sparked public fury after a three-year-old boy, Raju Munda, died allegedly due to a delay in the 108 emergency ambulance service.
The child slipped into a canal in Dangapal Ambataila Sahi under Kankadahad block while bathing with friends. Though rescued promptly, Raju was unconscious and needed urgent medical attention.
His family called the emergency helpline multiple times, but the ambulance never arrived.
Left with no choice, they rushed the child to Kamakhyanagar Hospital on a motorbike, where doctors pronounced him dead on arrival.
Local tribal leader Madhabananda Marandi has condemned the failure of emergency services, calling for government accountability.
The incident has intensified scrutiny over healthcare delivery in Odisha’s remote tribal regions, where access continues to be dangerously inadequate.
Despite repeated complaints, no statement has been issued by the 108 service authorities or the state health department. The silence has fueled growing anger among tribal communities, igniting calls for reforms and improved healthcare infrastructure.
