Mandya: In the wake of a heartbreaking incident involving the death of a 4-year-old girl due to lack of emergency transport, Mandya’s District Health Officer (DHO) Dr Mohan has reiterated that ambulance services are entirely free at all taluk hospitals and most Public Health Centres (PHCs) in the district.

The deceased, Rithiksha, daughter of Ashok and Vanishri from Goravanahalli (Maddur taluk), was bitten by a dog and rushed to Maddur taluk hospital, where she received first aid. However, the hospital allegedly did not provide an ambulance to transfer her to the Mandya Institute of Medical Sciences (MIMS) for further treatment. Her parents were asked to arrange their own transport.

Tragically, while transporting her on a two-wheeler, the family got caught in a vehicle checking drive by traffic police. Rithiksha succumbed before reaching the hospital, sparking public anger and calls for accountability.

Reacting swiftly, Dr Mohan clarified:

“All taluk hospitals and some PHCs in Mandya are equipped with ambulances. This service is completely free. If any staff demands money, the public should immediately report it to the concerned taluk officer or directly to me.”

He further urged hospital staff to clearly inform families about the free ambulance service while referring patients to other facilities. The health department has also promised strict action against violators of emergency care protocols.

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