The Andaman & Nicobar Administration flagged off its first Advanced Life Support (ALS) Ambulance at the National Memorial Cellular Jail, marking a significant step toward strengthening emergency medical transport services across the Islands. The ambulance was formally launched by Secretary (Health) Ms. Richa, who emphasized its role in enhancing the region’s critical care capabilities.
The newly introduced ALS ambulance has been assigned to G.B. Pant Hospital, where it will primarily support the transfer of critically ill patients requiring urgent medical evacuation. Officials said the ambulance will be deployed mainly for transporting patients to the airport for immediate airlift to mainland hospitals, ensuring seamless continuity of care during the transfer process.
Equipped with advanced medical technology and life-saving support systems, the ALS ambulance is expected to significantly reduce response times and improve survival rates in emergency situations. Health Department authorities noted that the vehicle is designed to maintain critical care standards throughout transit, allowing patients to receive stabilizing treatment even before reaching higher medical facilities.
According to hospital representatives, the introduction of the ALS ambulance addresses a longstanding requirement in the Islands’ emergency healthcare framework. With serious medical cases often requiring specialized treatment outside the Andaman & Nicobar region, rapid and well-equipped transit systems have remained essential. The new ambulance aims to bridge this gap by providing reliable and medically supported transfers.
The Health Department also expressed appreciation toward the A&N Administration for prioritizing healthcare infrastructure and introducing measures aimed at strengthening emergency response systems. Officials reaffirmed their commitment to delivering uninterrupted critical care support to all sections of the community, particularly those facing life-threatening medical conditions.
Authorities highlighted that the ALS ambulance is part of a broader effort to improve health services and emergency preparedness across the Islands. As patient transport continues to remain a crucial element in medical evacuation procedures, especially in geographically isolated regions, the new ambulance is expected to enhance operational efficiency in crisis situations.
Residents and healthcare professionals have welcomed the move, noting that the initiative will contribute to safer, faster, and better-coordinated patient transfers. The ALS ambulance is anticipated to ease the burden on existing emergency vehicles, improve communication between medical teams, and facilitate timely access to advanced care.
With its commissioning, the A&N Administration has taken a notable step toward reinforcing its healthcare infrastructure. The Health Department indicated that it will continue to explore additional measures to expand emergency medical services, strengthen public health capacity, and ensure equitable access to essential care.
