Ambulance shortage worries locals in Davangere

Davanagere

Though the Karnataka government has provided 108 - Arogya Kavach ambulances to offer timely emergency healthcare, the situation in Davangere district tells a different story. Only 13 ambulances are currently operating, while 6 are under repair due to age-related issues. Locals are frustrated as ambulances are not reaching on time, leaving patients stranded in emergencies.

Out of the 25 ambulances under the health department, 19 are available, but just 13 are functioning. Activist Avaragere Vasu said, “Struggle will have to be waged if the problem continues like this. The government has given 19 ambulances, but 6 are in the garage. For a big district like Davangere, 13 ambulances are not enough.”

Even after childbirth, mothers are not getting ambulance services to return home. They are being forced to travel by bus or auto. Vasu urged the district administration to fix this immediately and said, “Arrangements should be made for mothers to be taken home by ambulance.”

Further, he criticized the Rs. 10 per km ambulance charge at Chigateri District and Maternity Hospitals. “The district administration should investigate and stop this practice,” he demanded.

District Health Officer Dr. S. Shanmukhappa admitted the problem. “The issue may have arisen because some ambulances are broken down. They should be on the road and respond on time. We will request the government to get them repaired soon,” he said.

Despite government efforts, the reality on the ground reflects a crisis. Unless quick action is taken, the people of Davangere may have to fight for the very emergency services promised to them.