The Maharashtra government is planning to introduce helicopter-based air ambulance services on major highways from the beginning of next year to ensure timely medical assistance for road accident victims and patients facing critical medical emergencies.
The proposed service will cover key routes, including the Mumbai-Nagpur Samruddhi Mahamarg, Mumbai-Pune Expressway and Mumbai-Goa Highway, with a focus on providing emergency treatment within the crucial golden hour following an accident.
SOP Approval Targeted by November 15
The state government aims to prepare and secure approval for a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) by November 15. Following approval from a high-powered committee, the tender process for selecting service providers will begin.
State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said the initiative would help transport critically injured accident victims to designated trauma care centres as quickly as possible, potentially reducing preventable deaths.
Coordination Between Departments
The Transport Department, Health Department and Police Administration will jointly develop protocols covering air ambulance deployment, safe patient transportation and coordination among emergency response agencies.
The implementation plan also includes identifying trauma care centres, empanelling service providers and arranging financial support through the Road Safety Fund.
The proposal was discussed at a meeting attended by Health Minister Prakash Abitkar, Minister of State for Home Yogesh Kadam and senior departmental officials.
Focus on Reducing Road Accident Fatalities
According to state officials, Maharashtra records approximately 15,000 road accidents annually. Delays caused by traffic congestion, long distances to hospitals and limited access to emergency medical facilities remain major challenges in providing timely treatment.
Sarnaik emphasised that preventing road accidents and ensuring prompt medical care for injured individuals are equally important government responsibilities.
The proposed air ambulance network is expected to strengthen emergency healthcare infrastructure along Maharashtra’s highways and improve access to trauma care for critically injured patients.
The service remains at the planning stage, with its launch dependent on regulatory approvals, tendering and operational arrangements.
