150 new ambulances launched for 108 EMAS fleet upgrade

Bhubaneswar: In a boost to public services, chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday flagged of 150 new ambulances as part of the first phase of a large-scale fleet upgrade under the 108 emergency medical ambulance service (EMAS).

The health and family welfare department has procured 428 ambulances to strengthen the state’s emergency response system. This includes the replacement of 419 old vehicles and two ambulances damaged in accidents.


Additionally, five advanced life support (ALS) ambulances will cater to airports and airstrips under the commerce and transport department, while two ALS ambulances will be stationed at Jharsuguda Cardiac Care Hospital.

Around 5,000 patients are transported daily to hospitals across the state through the 108 ambulance network. The CM said the initiative aims to ensure faster and more reliable emergency care.

“We are committed to the welfare of our people. To further improve ambulance services, the old vehicles are being replaced in phases. The govt has spent Rs 111 crore for the procurement of 428 ambulances,” Majhi said.

He added that the remaining ambulances will be deployed soon, completing the replacement of the existing EMAS fleet. “This step will expedite healthcare delivery and strengthen emergency response across the state,” he said.

Health and family welfare minister Mukesh Mahaling, Ekamra-Bhubaneswar MLA Babu Singh, health commissioner-cum-secretary Aswathy S, and NHM mission director Brinda D were present at the event.

Officials said the upgraded fleet will significantly reduce response time and improve patient outcomes, especially in rural and remote areas. The move comes amid growing demand for efficient emergency transport services.

“There has been a surge in road accidents in the state in recent years. While ensuring the safety of citizens on the roads through different means, the govt should also deploy more ambulances for emergency services,” Saswat Jena, a road safety activist, said.