Bhubaneswar, April 23: The Odisha Cabinet has given the green light to the Emergency Medical Ambulance Services (EMAS) scheme for the period 2023-24 to 2027-28. This vital healthcare initiative, jointly undertaken by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, and the Government of Odisha, is aimed at strengthening pre-hospital emergency care across the state.

Popularly known as the ‘108’ ambulance service, EMAS has been operational in Odisha since March 5, 2013, and has emerged as a critical lifeline, especially for people in remote and underserved areas. The service operates round-the-clock through a centralized call center and is currently supported by a fleet of 866 ambulances, including Advanced Life Support (ALS), Basic Life Support (BLS), and specialized boat ambulances for difficult terrains.

In its second phase, the scheme aims to serve an estimated 11 to 12 lakh emergency cases over five years, ensuring timely response within 20 minutes. Priority will be given to pregnant women, infants, accident victims, and critically ill patients.

The scheme will be implemented via a private agency selected through an open tender process, with the total project cost pegged at ₹2,398.45 crore. Fund disbursement will follow a reimbursement-based model. The government hopes that the extended EMAS scheme will significantly improve emergency healthcare delivery and save countless lives in the years to come.

Powered by Froala Editor