Karnataka Urges Emergency Alternatives as 108 Ambulance Staff Threaten Strike

Karnataka Health Minister U.T. Khader advised the public on Tuesday not to depend solely on emergency response vehicles as 108 ambulance personnel threatened to halt operations starting Wednesday night.

The impending agitation poses significant risks to urgent medical transport across Bengaluru and districts throughout the state. Patients facing critical medical conditions or accidents may experience severe delays as union representatives press forward with their demands.

Addressing reporters in Bengaluru, Mr. Khader stated that only 350 to 400 ambulances remain operational out of a total requirement of approximately 750 vehicles statewide. This existing deficit already causes response times to stretch between 45 minutes and an hour in several areas.

The minister recommended that residents utilize transport facilities available at government taluk-level hospitals during medical emergencies. He emphasized that the administration requires time until December to overhaul the emergency network and issue a fresh tender process to replace a fleet that has deteriorated since 2018.

The 108 Ambulance Workers Union has outlined multiple grievances, including requests for annual salary increments, uniform pay structures across different zones, and seniority-based wage fixation. Additional demands involve establishing a three-shift work system, proper crew rest facilities, and ₹50 lakh in compensation for families of staff members who die during official duties.

Clarifying the government position, Mr. Khader noted that the personnel are employed by the private service provider GVK EMRI rather than directly by the state. He warned that while workers have the right to raise concerns, any disruption of essential medical care would invite strict intervention.

The minister added that the contracting firm bears primary responsibility for managing personnel and resolving disputes. He cautioned that the government would consider terminating the agreement and awarding the contract to a different agency if the current operator fails to maintain uninterrupted services.

Authorities indicated that contingency measures are being reviewed by district administrations to minimize distress for patients while negotiations remain at a standstill ahead of the deadline.