Odisha to Launch Unified Regulatory Framework for Private Ambulance Services

Bhubaneswar: In a landmark step aimed at transforming emergency medical transportation in the state, the Government of Odisha is set to introduce a comprehensive regulatory framework for private ambulance services. The initiative was deliberated in a high-level meeting chaired by Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary, Commerce & Transport Department, and co-chaired by Aswathy S., Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Health & Family Welfare Department.

The meeting brought together senior officials from both departments to address the urgent need for a structured and reliable private ambulance network. Recognizing the critical role private ambulances play in reaching patients in remote and underserved regions, the discussion centered on enhancing transparency, standardizing operations, and making ambulance services more accessible to the public.

As part of the plan, the state will launch a special campaign-mode registration drive to bring all private ambulances under a single, standardized platform. This drive aims to create a verified database of vehicles and operators, enabling better enforcement, real-time service deployment, and efficient emergency response.

A key proposal discussed was the incentivization of private ambulance operators to encourage registration and adherence to newly framed service guidelines. These incentives, coupled with stringent enforcement measures, are expected to increase participation while eliminating unregulated and exploitative practices.

In a move toward digitization and accountability, all registered ambulances will be integrated with the Vehicle Location Tracking System (VLTS). This will allow GPS-based monitoring of vehicle movements and facilitate quicker response times. Additionally, plans are underway to link these services with the Odisha Yatri App, creating a seamless platform where citizens can locate, book, and access ambulances using their mobile devices.

To protect the public from overcharging, the departments also discussed drafting a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for fare regulation. The proposed fare structure will be indexed to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), ensuring affordability and fairness across regions and time periods.

The meeting saw active participation from key healthcare and transport officials, including Dr. Brundha D., Mission Director, National Health Mission (NHM), Dr. Bijaya Mohapatra, Additional DMET, Dr. Umakant Satpathy, Deputy Superintendent of Capital Hospital, Dr. Dhananjay Das, and Tapan Kumar Mishra, Joint Director, Road Safety.

This initiative is part of Odisha’s larger vision to build a future-ready, inclusive, and citizen-centric healthcare and transport system. With strong interdepartmental collaboration, digital tools, and people-first regulation, the state government is committed to ensuring that timely medical assistance is available to every citizen—regardless of location or income.