Is ICMR Expanding Mobile BSL-3 Lab Capabilities?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The ICMR is set to enhance India's outbreak response with two more mobile BSL-3 laboratories, following the success of the RAMBAAN initiative in Kerala. This advancement aims to revolutionize diagnostics during viral outbreaks, ensuring rapid containment and public health safety.
Key Takeaways
- ICMR is procuring two additional MBSL-3 laboratories.
- The initiative aims to enhance rapid diagnostics during outbreaks.
- RAMBAAN successfully operated during the Nipah virus outbreak.
- The mobile lab is designed for extreme conditions with advanced safety features.
- Strict biosafety protocols are enforced during lab operations.
New Delhi, June 25 (NationPress) The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) announced on Wednesday that it is working towards acquiring two additional Mobile Biosafety Level 3 (MBSL-3) laboratories to facilitate swift diagnoses during outbreaks of both known and unknown high-risk pathogens within the nation.
Referred to as RAMBAAN, the initial rapid-action mobile BSL-3 laboratory was established to combat the recurring outbreaks of highly infectious agents such as Nipah, Zika, Avian influenza, and Covid-19. Identifying these viruses promptly during outbreaks is essential for enabling rapid containment and curbing transmission.
Inaugurated in February 2022 in Nashik, Maharashtra, the mobile lab was first deployed in response to the Nipah virus (NiV) outbreak in Kozhikode, Kerala, in September 2023 and subsequently in Malappuram District of Kerala in July 2024.
The ICMR highlighted that the success of the lab in Kerala illustrates the strategic benefits of such swiftly deployable and advanced infrastructure in addressing epidemiological challenges posed by high-risk pathogens.
At present, two MBSL-3 labs are stationed at ICMR-NIV Pune and ICMR-RMRC Gorakhpur, and the ICMR has indicated it is "in the process of procuring two more MBSL-3."
What is RAMBAAN?
Created in collaboration with the industrial firm Klenzaids Contamination Controls in Mumbai under the Pradhan Mantri-Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM), the MBSL-3 lab is constructed on a robust Bharat Benz vehicle chassis.
This innovative initiative by the ICMR aims to enhance onsite laboratory services during outbreaks of known and unknown high-risk pathogens.
“This innovative and fully indigenous mobile laboratory not only boosts India's outbreak response capabilities but also fortifies public health delivery, especially in remote and hard-to-reach areas,” stated the ICMR.
The mobile lab complies with BS-VI standards, is engineered to function under extreme temperatures and altitudes, and has a maximum load capacity of 17 tonnes (17,000 kgs).
“It is designed to maintain a negative air pressure environment and is outfitted with an advanced heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system featuring HEPA filters. It also includes a double-door autoclave and a biological liquid effluent decontamination (BLED) system, along with a hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) fogger for biological waste management,” the ICMR remarked.
How Does RAMBAAN Function?
The MBSL-3 lab's operational area is segmented into four zones: Zone-1 (driver and outer change room), Zone-2 (shower and inner change room), Zone-3 (main laboratory), and Zone-4 (material staging and decontamination area).
The lab can draw power from either a direct electric supply or a diesel generator, with an uninterrupted power supply (UPS) and petrol generators as backup.
Internal communication is facilitated through walkie-talkies and real-time monitoring via CCTVs.
During outbreaks, strict biosafety protocols, BSL-3 practices, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) are adhered to for specimen handling and processing, including the use of personal protective equipment such as coveralls, PAPRs, and double gloves, as stated by the ICMR.
The operation also encompasses aspects like personnel health, logistics for mobilization, major installation functioning, approvals, equipment inspections, and supply management, according to the apex research body.
Point of View
The ICMR's initiative to acquire additional mobile BSL-3 laboratories showcases a proactive approach to public health. This move not only bolsters India's diagnostic capabilities but also exemplifies a commitment to safeguarding communities nationwide.
NationPress
25/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the MBSL-3 labs?
The MBSL-3 labs are designed to enable rapid diagnosis of known and unknown high-risk pathogens during outbreaks, significantly enhancing outbreak response capabilities.
Where was the first RAMBAAN lab deployed?
The first RAMBAAN lab was deployed in Kozhikode, Kerala, in response to a Nipah virus outbreak.
What features does the RAMBAAN lab have?
The RAMBAAN lab is equipped with advanced HVAC systems, HEPA filters, a double-door autoclave, and a biological liquid effluent decontamination system, ensuring safe and efficient operations.
How does the lab maintain safety during operations?
The lab follows strict biosafety protocols, BSL-3 practices, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for handling and processing specimens, including the use of personal protective equipment.
What is the significance of this initiative?
This initiative represents a significant advancement in India's ability to respond to viral outbreaks swiftly, thereby protecting public health and preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
