Panvel emergency medical room turns haven for beggars after noon: Railway official

NAVI MUMBAI: The much touted emergency medical room (EMR) at Panvel railway station functions only till noon. Later, the room is locked and the area around it is frequented by beggars. A Panvel railway official claimed that they have to contact a private hospital if there is an an emergency after noon.
The EMR started six months ago at the railway station to provide immediate treatment in case of accidents.
“We have informed the seniors about the incomplete service provided by the hospital authorities,” said an official from Panvel.
The space and other facilities like water and electricity for EMR are provided by the Railways. It is equipped with one oxygen cylinder, one trolley, one wheel chair, emergency dressing and stitching material and a doctor from Life Line hospital.
As per railway sources, the EMR is supposed to be a partnership between Railways and a private hospital in Panvel. A medical team has to be on hand in case of any emergency or accident. They are supposed to visit the accident spot, if it is within the railway area and provide quick treatment to the victims free of charge and also shift them to the hospital, if there is a need.
Narendra Patil, chief PRO, Central Railway, said, “The EMRs are set up to provide the 24-hour medical services to the commuters. I will contact our medical director, who will communicate with the railway officials at Panvel as well as the private hospital officials, to run the EMR in a full-fledged manner.”