The district’s 108 ambulance service, intended to provide emergency medical assistance, is struggling with severe operational and infrastructure deficiencies, raising serious concerns over patient safety.
Most of the ambulances lack basic life-saving equipment, including oxygen cylinders, first-aid kits, and emergency medicines. Of the 36 ambulances allocated to East Singhbhum, only 12 are currently operational, while the remaining 24 are out of service due to mechanical problems.
Among the functioning vehicles, only the ambulance stationed at Sadar Hospital is fully equipped with an oxygen support system.
The others reportedly operate without oxygen cylinders, emergency medicines, or essential first-aid supplies, leaving paramedics with little scope to stabilise critically ill patients during transit.
The shortcomings came under the spotlight on July 15, when 65-year-old Santosh Kumbhakar from the remote Jodsa village in Patamda block died while being transported to MGM Medical College and Hospital (MGMMCH).
According to family members, the ambulance did not have an oxygen facility and suffered a tyre puncture en route, delaying treatment.
Civil Surgeon Dr Sahir Pall said the health department has launched an inquiry into the incident.
“We have initiated a probe into the matter, and appropriate action will be taken against those responsible, including the agency concerned, if any lapses are established,” Pall said.
During the preliminary investigation, officials reportedly found that several 108 ambulances were operating without first-aid kits, emergency medicines, and oxygen cylinders.
“Ambulances undergo periodic fitness checks and maintenance. In light of the latest findings, further corrective measures will be taken,” the Civil Surgeon added.
Apart from the shortage of essential medical equipment, delays in ambulance response have also emerged as a recurring concern.
On July 19, two villagers, including a nine-year-old girl, died after being struck by lightning in the Seraikela area. Residents alleged that the 108 ambulance arrived nearly one-and-a-half hours after being called, by which time both victims had succumbed to their injuries.
In another case on July 2, 70-year-old Amrika Singh Deo died while undergoing treatment at MGM Hospital after being referred from Ghatsila Sub-Divisional Hospital. Her family alleged that the ambulance reached late, delaying her admission, and claimed that timely transportation could have improved her chances of survival.
A similar incident was reported on October 4, 2025, when 38-year-old Sukurmani Sabar had to be carried on villagers’ shoulders to Dhalbhumgarh Community Health Centre because a 108 ambulance failed to reach her village, Dumurbandhi, in time.
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