Srinagar: In a significant move to prioritize the swift transportation of critically ill patients, the Traffic Department in Srinagar has issued directives imposing a fine of Rs 10,000 and a six-month imprisonment for vehicles obstructing ambulances on the road.
The Traffic Department emphasized the need for enhanced coordination between ambulance drivers and relevant authorities to guarantee smooth movement during emergencies.
To facilitate the seamless movement of medical emergency vehicles within the municipal limits of Srinagar, the Traffic Department urged hospital administrations and healthcare centres in the Kashmir valley to liaise with the Traffic Police Control Room. Additionally, drivers of emergency vehicles were advised to maintain close communication with the Traffic Control Unit through designated helpline numbers for trouble-free passage, reports the
Dailyexcelsior.
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In response to these directives, the Directorate of Health Services, Kashmir (DHSK), issued a set of guidelines focusing on improved communication, minimizing delays, and ensuring the smooth transit of patient transport. Dr Mushtaq Ahmad Rather, Director of Health Services Kashmir, emphasized the importance of coordination between Medical Superintendents and the Traffic Department to guarantee the prompt transportation of critical patients to tertiary care hospitals, reports the Daily.
“All commuters on the road are advised to pave the way for ambulances, especially those carrying patients to referral hospitals. Failure to provide passage to medical emergency vehicles (ambulances) is a violation under section 194E of the Motor Vehicle Act, carrying a fine of Rs. 10,000 and imprisonment for a term that may extend to six months,” the directions stated.
These measures underscore a collective effort to enhance emergency healthcare services by streamlining ambulance movement and addressing potential obstacles on the road. The stringent penalties imposed aim to deter any hindrance to ambulances, emphasizing the urgency of prioritizing human lives during medical emergencies. “These directives have been issued to ensure the movement of ambulances in coordination with the Traffic Department,” officials said.
According to a recent media report, proactive communication aims to ensure priority clearance for ambulances, minimizing delays that could compromise patient care and optimizing traffic flow for swift emergency responses. Medical Superintendents across the Kashmir division have been instructed to follow a set of procedures for the referral of critical patients. This includes obtaining pre-approval from the Traffic Department for priority clearance.
Additionally, hospitals are mandated to establish real-time communication channels with the Traffic Department, providing updates on ambulance locations and expected arrival times.
In instances of traffic congestion, administrators are directed to collaborate with the Traffic Department to identify and utilize alternative routes, expediting ambulance movements. These measures collectively seek to create a more efficient and responsive system for emergency medical transport in the region.
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