Jamshedpur: A series of deaths allegedly linked to delays and inadequate facilities in 108 ambulances has put the emergency service in East Singhbhum under scrutiny. Of the district’s 36 ambulances, 24 are out of service and only one of the 12 operational vehicles is fully equipped with oxygen, officials said.On July 15, 65-year-old Santosh Kumbhakar died while being taken from Jodsa village in Patamda block to Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Medical College and Hospital. His family alleged that the ambulance did not have oxygen and also suffered a tyre puncture during the journey.Four days later, two villagers, including a nine-year-old girl, died after being struck by lightning in Seraikela. Villagers alleged that the ambulance took nearly one-and-a-half hours to arrive.On July 2, 70-year-old Amrika Singh Deo, who had been referred from Ghatsila Sub-Divisional Hospital, died at MGM Hospital. Her family blamed a delay in getting an ambulance for her death.In another incident on Oct 4, 2025, villagers had to carry 38-year-old Sukurmani Sabar on their shoulders to Dhalbhumgarh community health centre after an ambulance allegedly failed to reach Dumurbandhi on time.The incidents have highlighted the poor condition of the district’s 108 ambulance fleet. A preliminary inquiry by the health department found several vehicles without oxygen cylinders, first-aid kits, emergency medicines and other life-saving equipment, leaving paramedics with limited means to stabilise patients during transit.Only 12 of the 36 ambulances allotted to East Singhbhum are currently operational, and the vehicle stationed at Sadar Hospital is the only one fully equipped with an oxygen supply, officials said.A 108 ambulance driver, requesting anonymity, said the condition of some vehicles made it difficult to transport patients quickly. “The ambulances are in such poor condition that we cannot drive them above 20-22kmph. If we do, there is a risk of the vehicle breaking down midway,” he said.East Singhbhum civil surgeon Dr Sahir Pall said an inquiry had been initiated into Kumbhakar’s death. “We have initiated a probe into the matter and will take action against the individuals and the agency if they are found guilty,” he said.Pall said the fitness of ambulances was assessed periodically and repairs were undertaken when required. “With new findings coming to light, corrective measures will be taken,” he added.
