Kalaburagi, Karnataka has deployed auto ambulances, keeping in mind the shortage of regular ambulances and better accessibility the autos can provide
Bengaluru: At a time when ambulances are at a premium, Kalaburagi, Karnataka has started auto ambulances for the benefit of public.
As many as 5 autos have been earmarked for the same. While 3 operate in the morning, 2 operate in the night, reports Times of India.
They are stationed at the City Municipal Commissioner’s office.
Snehal Lokhande, commissioner stated that though there are 100 ambulances, most of the places are accessible only by autos.
"The district reports 700-800 new cases every day and the city accounts for 400-500 of them. Only 10% of those cases require hospitalisation. As the city has many narrow lanes, movement of ambulances is not easy. Hence, we need autorickshaws too," he was quoted as saying.
Auto drivers too are a happy lot and are willing to help the needy and necessitous.
“Thanks to lockdown, we have no other work and would like to help patients,” auto driver Shakeel Patel, was quoted as saying.
These auto drivers really have a motherly heart.
Another auto driver, Ravichandra feels it is their duty to help patients in need. He added, “On Wednesday, I ferried five patients. I take precautions like using a mask and sanitiser.”
But why this move to have auto ambulances?
Well, the commissioner adds that there are many auto drivers who refuse to ferry passengers as they fear getting the virus.
“Many patients have tried using public transport, but that’s not advised keeping the virus-control measures in mind. Some auto drivers have volunteered to work with the city administration. We are aiding them with daily allowances and free fuel,” he explained.
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