Early Times Report
Srinagar, Oct 13: Ten years on, the state with the highest number of accident death desperately awaits critical care ambulances. There are a few such ambulances but for VVIPs, sources said adding for lesser mortals there is no such facility
The government, it merits a mention here, has set up five trauma centres at various locations but for want of proper ambulances, these centres have not been serving the desired purpose. Secretariat archives reveal that a proposal for air ambulances was moved in 2009. No action was taken and the proposal has been gathering dust for quite some time now.
It has also come to fore that the government had shown some interest in air ambulances. However, the sources said, saner elements ridiculed the idea. They believe that the air ambulance will benefit a particular class of people. The authorities, they said, must do something for the commoner.
"The so-called ambulances that add to noise pollution of the city and towns are in fact body carriers. They are not suitable for carrying the trauma patients who need special care while shifting them to the hospital. These ill equipped vehicles can further endanger the life of such patients," said a medico.
He said the state has the highest number of accident deaths and that should have been a strong reason for the government to procure the specialised vehicles for every district.
A report on accident deaths and suicides said 63.5 percent deaths due to unnatural causes are due to road traffic accidents in Jammu Kashmir, the highest in any state. The experts have been seeking ambulances equipped with life support system and skilled medical personnel. It has come to fore that the injured succumb on way to the hospital due to loss of blood.
The situation that the state is facing for the past thirty years also warrants purchase of such vehicles. "It is an irony that in the twenty-first century, the state that boasts of best health services is without a critical care ambulance. Such specialised vehicles can make a difference and go a long way in saving precious lives," experts lament/.
It has been observed that the law makers donate ordinary vans to hospitals, dispensaries and even NGOs for publicity. "Such vehicles cost the law makers a few bucks. However, this noble gesture goes in vain. They, however, can play a vital role by donating money from their constituency development fund," concerned citizens said. |
