Udupi: In a deeply concerning incident reported from Udyavar, a critically ill patient had to be transported to the district hospital in a goods tempo after a 108 ambulance and private ambulances were unavailable for more than two and a half hours. The episode has sparked widespread worry about the state of emergency medical services in Udupi district.
Two-and-a-half-hour wait for an ambulance
According to sources, the patient’s family began calling the 108 emergency helpline at around 7:00 p.m., continuing their efforts until 9:30 p.m. Despite repeated requests, they were informed that no ambulance was available. Attempts to secure a private ambulance were also unsuccessful.
As the patient’s condition worsened, the family sought help from local resident Vishu Shetty of Ambalpady, known for assisting people in medical and emergency situations.
Goods tempo used as last resort
Mr. Shetty attempted to reach multiple ambulance operators but was unable to secure any vehicle. With the patient’s health deteriorating rapidly, he made the decision to place a cot inside his goods tempo and transport the patient to the district hospital.
The quick action is believed to have played a crucial role in preventing a potential tragedy.
Speaking to the media, Mr. Shetty said that the situation was not new. “For the past one year, 108 ambulances have not been functioning properly. Hundreds of patients have suffered because of this. I have repeatedly brought this issue to the notice of the government, but nothing has changed,” he said.
He added that despite Udupi district having 18 ambulances under the 108 service, only five or six were effectively available to the public. “We were forced to use a goods tempo to save the patient. The government and district administration must take urgent measures. People’s lives cannot be neglected,” he stressed.
Systemic issues in emergency medical services
The incident has brought to light deeper systemic issues. Reports from various parts of the district indicate that delays in ambulance response times, shortage of functional vehicles, and administrative lapses have affected timely medical assistance.
Residents say this failure is especially alarming in a district known for its healthcare infrastructure and medical institutions. Social workers have urged the authorities to conduct an audit of ambulance availability and ensure that emergency services operate round the clock.
Calls for immediate action
Health activists and local leaders have demanded that the state government intervene immediately. Many believe that the gap between the number of officially allotted ambulances and those actually available for service must be addressed without delay.
Medicinal emergencies require rapid response, and even a few minutes of delay can cost lives. The latest incident underscores the urgent need for:
- Deployment of all sanctioned 108 ambulances in working condition
- Strict monitoring of ambulance service operations
- Improved coordination between hospitals and emergency operators
- Transparent reporting of ambulance availability to the public
Conclusion
This incident from Udyavar has served as a wake-up call for authorities in Udupi district. As public concerns grow, there is increasing pressure on the district administration and the state government to strengthen emergency medical services and ensure that no patient is left without timely help. The episode highlights the critical need for functional ambulances, efficient management, and a responsive emergency system that prioritises human life above all else.