108 ambulance, 104 helpline prepared for 24x7 service during festivals

Stating that there are 936 ambulances on four wheels and 41 bike ambulances in the state, a source from GVK EMRI – which runs both the 108 and 104 services, said, “We have identified hotspots on the National Highway and are taking measures to ensure that there are sufficient number of ambulances stationed there to handle emergency cases.”

He added, “We are also keeping ambulances stationed at the Koyambedu bus stand, Madhavaram special bus stand and Perungalathur bus stand, apart from Egmore and Central Railway stations.”

The source added that arrangements have been made for adequate number of ambulances at all districts. “We have ensured that the ambulances were serviced and fitted with all necessary facilities required to handle emergencies,” he said.

Every year, Tamil Nadu records a number of cases of burns and injuries during Deepavali which require ambulance services.

The 108-control room would be functioning at full strength 24x7 to handle all the calls that come through, the official said, adding that counsellors would be available all day to handle calls and to connect them to doctors and nurses for advice and treatment round the clock.