Bhubaneswar: As Odisha prepares to celebrate Diwali on October 20, 2025, the EMRI Green Health Services, operating the 108 Emergency Medical Ambulance Service, has taken special preparedness measures to ensure prompt emergency medical response across the state.
Anticipating potential emergencies like burn injuries, respiratory distress, accidental fires, and road traffic mishaps, the 108 Ambulance Service has enhanced its operational readiness to respond effectively and minimise the impact of any unfortunate incidents.
Key Preparedness Initiatives:
* Strategic Deployment in High-Risk Areas: The ambulances will be stationed in identified hotspot zones across major districts where firecracker-related and road accident cases are more likely to occur. This will help in faster response and immediate medical support to affected individuals.
* 24×7 Monitoring and Reinforced Command Control Centre: Extra manpower have been assigned during the evening and night hours to handle the expected rise in emergency calls efficiently and without delay in 108 Command Control Centre in Bhubaneswar.
* Enhanced Coordination with other Emergency Stakeholders: Seamless coordination has been established with the 112 call centre, and Government Hospitals to facilitate quick information sharing, on-ground assistance, and speedy patient transfer to the nearest medical facilities.
* Pre-Festival Operational Checks: All ambulance crews have been instructed to refuel their vehicles before 5 PM on 20th October to avoid any delay in responding to calls. Teams have also been briefed to stay alert and maintain readiness throughout the festive night.
* Fully Equipped and Trained Teams: Each ambulance is equipped with essential life-saving medicines, first-aid supplies, and emergency care equipment. Every 108 crew member are trained to handle critical cases such as burn management, trauma care, and resuscitation.
Our entire 108 team is on high alert during Diwali to ensure that timely medical assistance reaches anyone in need. We appeal to all citizens to celebrate safely and responsibly, and to dial 108 immediately in case of any medical or accident emergency. Together, let’s make this Diwali a safe and joyous one for all, ”stated Sabyasachi Biswal, State Head, 108 Ambulance Service, Odisha.
