Employee Welfare / 108 Ambulance Mishap Sparks Protest at Bhadrak Hospital, Protesters Blame Overwork

Bhadrak, Jul 24: Bhadrak district witnessed tense scenes after a 108 ambulance accident left three staff members critically injured, sparking protests by colleagues and family members.

The incident occurred when a 108 ambulance, returning from SCB Medical College and Hospital, Cuttack, after dropping a patient, lost balance near Khonditar Chhak under Kuakhia police limits and rammed into a divider.

Another 108 ambulance following behind rushed the injured staff to SCB Medical College, Cuttack.

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According to reports, the accident was linked to excessive work pressure and continuous duty without breaks. Staff allege that despite labour laws mandating rest periods, ambulance drivers and medical staff are being forced to work long hours without relief. This has led to repeated accidents, with over 108 mishaps reported so far, including three serious cases.

In protest, more than 15 ambulances were parked inside Bhadrak District Headquarters Hospital premises. Families of the injured, along with other ambulance staff, staged a sit-in demonstration, blocking ambulances from ferrying patients. They demanded immediate intervention from senior officials and strict enforcement of labour laws to ensure safety of frontline emergency workers.

Eyewitnesses said the protest created difficulties for patients arriving at the hospital, as ambulances were stopped at the entrance.

The incident highlights the growing concerns over working conditions of emergency medical staff in Odisha. With rising demand for ambulance services, workers argue that without proper rest and safety measures, both patients and staff remain at risk. The protest is expected to continue until authorities provide concrete assurances.