Karnataka to Roll Out 800 Ambulances by December-End, Equip Taluk Hospitals with ICUs

Ballari: Karnataka plans to operationalise a fleet of 800 ambulances by the end of December and set up intensive care unit (ICU) facilities in taluk hospitals as part of efforts to strengthen public healthcare, Health Minister U T Khader said.

Addressing reporters during his visit to Ballari district, Khader said more than 200 doctors had joined primary health centres (PHCs) following approval for direct recruitment. Lab technicians and pharmacists were also being appointed on an outsourcing basis, depending on district requirements.

The government has approved 350 additional ambulances, which will take the total fleet to 800, including the existing 450 vehicles. A patient transport system aimed at ensuring access to PHCs and taluk hospitals within 20-25 minutes is expected to be fully operational by December-end. The service provider will face a penalty of ₹3,000 for delays, he said.

Under a 100-day action plan, specialist doctors will be appointed at every taluk hospital and five ICU beds will be established at each facility. The initiative is aimed at reducing the need for patients to travel to district hospitals during emergencies.

Khader also announced plans for a separate health policy for women, supported by a dedicated division and a deputy director to oversee healthcare services from birth to old age.

He said the government was committed to strengthening public healthcare and ensuring free medical services reached the most vulnerable sections of society.