Bhubaneswar, July 10 (UDN): Two officials associated with the 108 ambulance service in Kalahandi have been suspended following the death of an 11-year-old girl during an emergency transfer to a hospital.
The action was taken by the ambulance service provider after concerns were raised over the delay and circumstances surrounding the transfer of Riya Nayak, a resident of Tulapada village under Narla block.
Riya was undergoing treatment at Narla Community Health Centre after suffering from high fever and severe stomach pain. As her condition worsened, arrangements were made to shift her to Kalahandi District Headquarters Hospital in Bhawanipatna for further treatment.
According to the ambulance agency, the vehicle assigned for the transfer faced a tyre-related problem while travelling towards the district hospital. The crew informed the emergency call centre and efforts were made to arrange another ambulance to continue the journey.
The replacement ambulance later transported the child to the hospital, where doctors declared her brought dead.
The ambulance operating agency has suspended the on-duty driver and cluster leader until the completion of an internal inquiry. Officials said further action will be taken after reviewing the findings of the investigation.
The incident has drawn attention to the importance of reliable emergency medical services, with authorities examining the circumstances to ensure better response and patient safety in future cases.
