Chennai gears up for safe New Year eve

“As many as 51 ambulances will be kept ready to attend to any untoward incidents,” a Health official said and added, “A total of 37 four-wheeler ambulances and 13 two-wheeler ambulances will be stationed at important locations, including malls, beaches, star hotels and shopping malls where people are expected to gather in large numbers.”

A release by the Health Department stated that more doctors and hospital staff will work in the night and that the 108-ambulance call centre will also be equipped to take care of the extra load.

The health department will work along with the police department to ensure the safety of the public, it added.

“The call centre will be fully prepared as the number of calls is expected to be high between 11 pm and 1 am.

Ambulances will be positioned on hotspots based on historical data, especially on state and National Highways and arterial roads. We will have an integrated approach with the city police and our emergency response centre,” said a source from the ambulance service.

The ‘104 helpline’ will also be ready to provide any medical help relating to breathing distress and cardiac emergency.

“Doctors and paramedics will be available throughout. Also, it is seen that during such celebrations, there will also be psychological disturbances, for which, persons in need can seek help through the helpline,” said an official.