By Chandan Singh | Page 3 News Worldwide | New Delhi
New Delhi: The Delhi Government is set to enhance its emergency healthcare services with the launch of 20 advanced geriatric ambulances, specifically designed to meet the medical needs of senior citizens, Health Minister Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh announced.
The specialised ambulances will be equipped with modern medical facilities and life-support systems, aimed at improving response times and strengthening pre-hospital care for elderly patients across the capital.
At present, the Centralised Accident and Trauma Services (CATS) operates a fleet of 331 ambulances through its centralised control room, accessible via the toll-free number 102 and integrated with the 112 Emergency Response Support System (ERSS). With the addition of the new geriatric units, the fleet will expand to 351 ambulances, significantly enhancing the city’s emergency response capacity.
The government has also outlined plans for a phased expansion of the ambulance fleet to 1,000 vehicles, as part of efforts to build a more robust and future-ready emergency response network.
The initiative forms part of the Delhi Government’s broader push to improve healthcare accessibility and responsiveness, backed by a budgetary allocation of ₹13,034 crore for the health sector. Authorities are also prioritising the completion of key hospital infrastructure projects and the upgradation of critical care facilities to support emergency services.
Speaking on the development, Dr. Singh said the move reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive healthcare. “Ensuring timely and dignified healthcare for our senior citizens remains our priority. These ambulances will enable prompt medical intervention while ongoing improvements in hospital infrastructure will ensure continuity of quality treatment,” he said.
The initiative is being implemented under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, with a focus on creating an efficient, inclusive and patient-centric healthcare system, particularly for the well-being of the elderly population.
