Karnataka New Year fete: '108' ambulances on high alert tonight

Bengaluru: The state government’s 108 Arogya Kavacha ambulances have been prepared and deployed across the state to prevent loss of life due to road accidents that might occur during New Year celebrations. 

According to a health department communication, an average increase of 30% to 35% in accident cases has been reported during New Year celebrations, prompting the department to take precautionary measures. 

The ambulance services will work in close coordination with the police department, and additional ambulances will be deployed in areas where it is anticipating a higher number of accidents.

Equipped in advance

To ensure uninterrupted services, weekly off days of ambulance staff have been cancelled, and all ambulances have been equipped in advance with sufficient fuel, oxygen, and necessary medical equipment.

In the city, 72 ambulances have been deployed along with trained and specialised staff. In case of emergencies, the public can dial the toll-free number '108'.

Regional manager of Arogya Kavacha Yatheesh N said, “Each ambulance will have a pilot and an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). Fifty three ambulances will be active in public places and on roads during the night.”

The availability of ambulances has been ensured to safely transport patients suffering from life-threatening injuries.

Information regarding major accidents and casualties will be shared with the police, fire and emergency services and the health department.