Ambulance Refusal Forces Pregnant Woman To Walk

(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer) Srinagar- Authorities have ordered an inquiry after a pregnant woman was allegedly forced to walk in search of medical assistance due to the non-availability of an ambulance in a remote village of Jammu and Kashmir's Ramban district.

The inquiry was initiated after allegations surfaced that staff of the 108 ambulance service refused to travel to Tangar village to transport 23-year-old Nayeema Banoo, who reportedly developed pregnancy-related complications and required urgent medical attention.

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According to local residents, Banoo's family contacted the emergency ambulance service after her condition worsened. The ambulance reportedly reached Dharamkund Zero Point on the Ramban-Gool Highway but did not proceed further towards the village.

Residents alleged that despite repeated requests and being informed about the woman's condition, the ambulance staff declined to travel to Tangar village.

With no immediate transport available, Banoo and her attendants were allegedly left with no option but to undertake a difficult journey on foot before eventually finding a private vehicle that helped them reach the waiting ambulance.

She was later shifted to District Hospital Ramban for treatment.

The incident prompted social activist Saddam Bali to lodge a complaint with the Health Department, seeking action against the ambulance staff and urging authorities to ensure that similar incidents do not recur.

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Acting on the complaint, Ramban Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Kamal G Zadoo directed the Block Medical Officer (BMO), Batote, to conduct a detailed inquiry into the allegations.

In an official communication, the BMO has been asked to carry out a comprehensive investigation and submit a report to the CMO's office within two days.

Speaking to reporters, Dr Zadoo said the 108 ambulance service operates under a contractual arrangement but maintained that the Health Department makes every effort to ensure ambulance services reach remote habitations connected by road.

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“We make every effort to ensure that ambulances reach remote villages with road connectivity,” he said.

The CMO said appropriate action would be taken in accordance with the rules after the inquiry report is received.

Officials said the investigation will ascertain the circumstances under which the ambulance failed to reach the village and determine whether any negligence occurred on the part of the staff.

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