Is the Ambulance Fleet Ready for Diwali Week in Tamil Nadu?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 1,353 ambulances on alert across Tamil Nadu.
- Anticipating 6,500 medical emergencies during Deepavali.
- Emergency operations center functioning at full capacity.
- 11 key hotspots identified in Chennai for enhanced coverage.
- Public encouraged to call 108 in emergencies.
Chennai, Oct 15 (NationPress) The EMRI Green Health Services, responsible for the ‘108’ emergency ambulance service in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu Health System Project, has placed its entire fleet of 1,353 ambulances on high alert across the State to manage medical emergencies during the Deepavali festival from October 19 to 25.
In a recent announcement, EMRI Green Health Services indicated that they expect to respond to approximately 6,500 emergencies during the festive week, marking a surge of about 30 percent compared to ordinary days.
To guarantee an uninterrupted emergency response, the emergency operations center will operate at full capacity, with personnel organized into three shifts throughout the week.
The organization has pinpointed several “Deepavali hotspots” statewide, where emergency calls typically rise due to road accidents, firecracker-related injuries, and health complications caused by smoke and noise pollution.
Specialized ambulance units will be positioned near major government hospitals to facilitate inter-facility patient transfers, which will ensure quicker response times and improved coordination with district authorities.
In Chennai, 11 key Deepavali hotspots have been designated for enhanced emergency services, including the Kalaignar Centenary Bus Terminus in Kilambakkam, the Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus at Koyambedu, Puratchi Thalaivar Dr MGR Central Railway Station, Egmore Railway Station, Ranganathan Street, Pondy Bazaar, Marina Beach, Elliot’s Beach, Guindy Children’s Park, Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore, and Parthasarathy Temple in Triplicane.
Officials have noted that these locations experience a significant influx of people, travel activities, and festive gatherings, prompting the allocation of extra ambulances and medical teams.
“All our control rooms and field teams will function around the clock, ensuring prompt medical assistance for accident and burn victims during the festive period,” stated an official.
The emergency response teams have also been directed to collaborate closely with fire and rescue services, traffic police, and local health authorities for more effective incident management.
Public awareness initiatives regarding safe celebration practices and the use of green crackers are being shared through various channels.
The ‘108’ ambulance service, which operates under a public-private partnership model, responds to over 4,000 emergencies daily across Tamil Nadu, dealing with road accidents, maternity cases, trauma, and cardiac incidents.
With the expected increase in festive activity, the service has urged the public to call 108 without hesitation in case of any emergency.