How is Odisha CM ensuring swift hospital access to lower mortality with new ambulances?
Synopsis
Odisha's Chief Minister is on a mission to save lives! With the launch of 250 new ambulances, the state government is focused on drastically reducing mortality rates by ensuring quick access to hospitals. This initiative not only strengthens healthcare but also provides vital support for pregnant women and children.
Key Takeaways
250 new ambulances launched to enhance emergency medical services.
Plan includes 428 new ambulances to reduce mortality rates.
Specialized services for pregnant women and sick children via Janani Express .
Current fleet operates 866 ambulances across 30 districts.
More than 5,000 patients transported daily to health facilities.
Bhubaneswar, Feb 10 (NationPress) Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi stated on Tuesday that the state government is committed to cutting down the mortality rate by facilitating the swift transport of patients to hospitals. Continuous initiatives are being implemented to enhance ambulance services throughout the state to realize this objective.
To bolster emergency healthcare services in Odisha, CM Majhi inaugurated 250 new ambulances under the 108 Emergency Medical Ambulance Service (EMAS) during a ceremony at Kalinga Stadium.
To guarantee that citizens receive timely emergency medical assistance, the state government has arranged for a total of 428 new ambulances.
In the initial phase, 150 ambulances were launched on December 23, 2025, followed by the introduction of an additional 250 ambulances on Tuesday.
The ambulances were acquired under the 108-EMAS for a cost of Rs 25.77 lakh each, which includes branding and registration. The total expenditure for acquiring the 428 ambulances is approximately Rs 111 crore, fully financed by the state.
Since its inception on March 5, 2013, the 108 Emergency Medical Ambulance Service has been operating a fleet of 866 ambulances across all 30 districts in the state.
The current fleet comprises 449 Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances, 411 Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulances, and six boat ambulances, all providing free emergency medical services to the public.
Furthermore, an additional 500 dedicated ambulances, termed ‘Janani Express’, are designated specifically for transporting pregnant women and ill children, functioning as a crucial support for the state’s residents.
CM Majhi also highlighted the measures taken to ensure continuous ambulance services from all blocks to District Headquarters Hospitals (DHH) and from DHHs to the SCB Medical and Hospital in Cuttack.
Additionally, the Chief Minister announced that ambulance services will be made available at airstrips such as Rourkela and Jaipur through the B-MAAN scheme. Currently, five Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulances are stationed at various airports statewide, with two ALS ambulances located at the Cancer Hospital in Jharsuguda.
At present, over 5,000 patients are transported daily to government health facilities using the 108-EMAS and Janani Express services.
The phased introduction of new ambulances is intended to replace older vehicles, enhance response times, and further strengthen the state’s emergency healthcare delivery system.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the significance of Odisha's initiative to enhance ambulance services. By prioritizing swift patient transport, the state government is not only addressing healthcare accessibility but also exemplifying a proactive approach to saving lives. This aligns with national health objectives and sets a benchmark for other states.
NationPress
4 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the new ambulances in Odisha?
The new ambulances aim to reduce mortality rates by ensuring patients reach hospitals quickly, improving emergency healthcare services.
How many ambulances were launched recently?
A total of 250 new ambulances were inaugurated on February 10, with an overall plan for 428 ambulances in the state.
What types of ambulances are included in the fleet?
The fleet includes Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Life Support (ALS), and specialized ambulances like the Janani Express for pregnant women and sick children.
When was the 108 Emergency Medical Ambulance Service launched?
The 108 Emergency Medical Ambulance Service was launched in Odisha on March 5, 2013.
How does this initiative impact daily patient transport?
Currently, over 5,000 patients are transported daily to government health facilities through these ambulance services, greatly improving access to emergency care.
