Karnataka to Relaunch Bike Ambulance Service Soon: Health Minister U.T. Khader
Udupi: Karnataka Health and Family Welfare Minister U.T. Khader on Saturday announced that the State Government will soon relaunch the Bike Ambulance service to ensure quicker emergency medical response in regions plagued by severe traffic congestion.
Speaking to mediapersons in Udupi, Khader said conventional ambulances often get delayed in dense traffic, especially in urban and semi-urban areas, making bike ambulances a practical and effective alternative for delivering immediate medical assistance. He said the government is examining the proposal seriously and expects the service to restart shortly.
The Minister also indicated that the State is considering introducing Boat Ambulance services in suitable regions. He said a decision on the proposal would be taken soon, keeping in view the needs of people living in riverine and difficult-to-access areas.
Khader further said that talks have been initiated with Metro authorities to explore transporting patients through Metro Rail services in emergencies. He added that the proposal has also been brought to the notice of the Union Health Minister for further consideration and support.
Addressing questions on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, Khader clarified that the Congress party has not opposed the process. However, he said the party is creating awareness to ensure that no eligible voter is denied the right to vote in the name of revision.
Emphasising that it is the duty of the Election Commission to ensure universal inclusion of eligible citizens, the Minister said the SIR process comes entirely under the jurisdiction of the Election Commission and the State Government has no role in its implementation. He added that the government’s intention is only to extend support so that no eligible voter is excluded, and any grievances should be taken up with the Election Commission for necessary action.
Khader said a review meeting was also held to assess preparedness for the ongoing monsoon season and to ensure coordinated response by departments, elected representatives, and officials during natural calamities. He informed that Rs 20 crore has been earmarked under the Deputy Commissioner’s Relief Fund to provide immediate relief and compensation to disaster victims.
To speed up assistance at the local level, Rs 20 lakh has been placed at the disposal of each Tahsildar. He said departments such as MESCOM, Urban Development, Forest, and Rural Development have been instructed to work in close coordination during emergencies.
The Minister further announced that the Forest Department has set up a Control Room with helpline number 1926 for emergency assistance. Citizens may also contact the District Administration and Police Control Rooms during crises, he said, assuring prompt action.
He added that Gram Panchayat Administrators, PDOs, local organisations, and elected representatives have been instructed to form village-level task forces to strengthen disaster response at the grassroots level.
On healthcare infrastructure in Udupi, Khader said a high-level meeting will be held next week to decide on the inauguration of the new District Hospital building and to review the functioning of the Government Mother and Child Hospital.
Regarding ration cards, the Minister said that the Chief Minister had already discussed the issue in the Cabinet meeting, and instructions had been issued to the concerned department. He expressed confidence that the matter would be resolved soon.
Overall, Khader’s announcements highlighted the State Government’s focus on strengthening emergency medical services, disaster preparedness, and public welfare measures in Karnataka.
