Mumbai to Launch State‑Funded Air Ambulance Service Across Highways (1)
Maharashtra has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to bolster road safety and enhance public transport services, including the introduction of air ambulance facilities on highways. This ambitious plan, announced by the Transport Minister, also prioritises the welfare of employees within the state-run transport corporation and assures its non-privatisation. The initiative underscores a holistic approach to creating safer, more efficient, and equitable urban mobility ecosystems.
The state’s new comprehensive road safety plan is set to implement various improvements funded by the road safety corpus. A pivotal aspect of this strategy is the deployment of air ambulance services and vehicles equipped with essential medical equipment along highways, designed to provide immediate assistance following accidents. This critical enhancement aims to drastically reduce response times and improve casualty management, thereby saving lives and mitigating the severe human and economic costs associated with road incidents. Furthermore, an independent agency will be appointed to gather detailed information on accident-prone areas, enabling data-driven interventions for enhanced safety.
Concurrently, the Transport Minister reaffirmed the state’s unwavering commitment to the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC), describing it as the “mother organisation” supporting approximately 83,000 employees. A clear assurance was given that MSRTC services would not be privatised in the future, dispelling rumours and reinforcing the corporation’s foundational role as a public service provider. This commitment ensures continued affordable and accessible transport options for citizens, aligning with the vision of equitable urban development.
Beyond operational enhancements, the plan also places significant emphasis on the welfare of MSRTC employees. Initiatives include the imminent appointment of a private sanitation company to ensure the cleanliness of driver-conductor rest houses and associated facilities. Additionally, arrangements will be made for washing and ironing uniforms, and even providing personal grooming services for employees. These measures are designed to create a more favourable psychological environment, enhance employee morale, and ultimately boost productivity, contributing to a more dignified and gender-neutral workplace.
The state is also intensifying its crackdown on illegal taxi and app-based bus services that operate outside regulatory frameworks. This enforcement drive aims to streamline passenger transport, ensure fair competition, and uphold safety standards across the public transport sector. By addressing these multifaceted challenges, Maharashtra is striving to build a resilient and sustainable transport infrastructure that serves the needs of its diverse population, while also contributing to a reduced carbon footprint through efficient public mobility.
This holistic approach to transport governance, encompassing advanced safety measures, strategic infrastructure development, and a strong commitment to employee welfare, positions Maharashtra at the forefront of creating truly smart, eco-friendly, and inclusive cities. The blend of technological innovation with social responsibility is crucial for fostering urban environments where both citizens and workers can thrive securely and equitably.
