Tamil Nadu’s Super-Hotspots Strategy Reduces Ambulance Response Time and Saves Lives
Tamil Nadu has introduced a focused strategy, marking 150 critical “super-hotspots” across the state. These hotspots are identified locations where accidents frequently occur, causing major traffic disruptions and delays in emergency response. By pinpointing these areas and optimising ambulance deployment, the authorities have managed to significantly reduce response times, improving survival chances for victims.
Accidents are a common occurrence in high-traffic zones, and Tamil Nadu’s major cities like Chennai, Coimbatore, and Trichy are no strangers to these emergencies. The identification of accident-prone ‘super-hotspots’ emerged after it was observed that during peak hours (from 5 PM to 10 PM), the same areas experienced back-to-back accidents. The most notable hotspots include Koyambedu and Maduravoyal in Chennai, Sai Baba temple junction in Coimbatore, and Palpannai junction in Trichy. A key issue with accident hotspots is that emergency response services, particularly ambulances, are often stretched thin. The average time for an ambulance to reach an accident site, offer first aid, transport the victim to the hospital, and return to base is approximately one hour and 20 minutes. However, the frequent occurrence of multiple accidents in the same area means ambulances often cannot respond in time, exacerbating the risk of fatality.
To address this challenge, the state implemented an innovative solution based on data and technology. M Selvakumar, head of GVK-EMRI Green Health Services, which manages the 108 ambulance service, explained how ambulances are strategically positioned using an algorithm. This system takes into account traffic density, accident frequency, and space availability in various areas. For example, the Integrated Road Accident Database (iRAD), which consolidates national accident data, identified a consistent trend of accidents around the Koyambedu junction. To ensure timely response, the authorities positioned ambulances at key locations within a 2-km radius of Koyambedu, including Tirumangalam, CMBT, and Koyambedu metro stations. Even when an ambulance is unavailable due to another emergency, the closest vehicle is immediately alerted to respond to the hotspot.
At Maduravoyal, a cluster model was introduced during peak hours, where ambulances from nearby areas like Porur and Vanagaram remain on standby. This ensures that if an ambulance from Maduravoyal is occupied, the nearest available one can be dispatched immediately. This strategic positioning and clustering of ambulances have dramatically improved response times and the chances of saving accident victims’ lives. The introduction of the ‘Inuyir Kappom Nammai Kakkum 48’ scheme is another critical part of this system. Under this initiative, patients with severe injuries, such as head trauma, neck injuries, or significant internal bleeding, are prioritised and quickly transported to the nearest hospital. The scheme has led to a reduction in fatalities due to the timely provision of first aid and medical attention.
Health Minister Ma Subramanian stated that the early treatment facilitated by this scheme has been instrumental in reducing accident deaths across the state. Over 700 hospitals are now empanelled under this programme, ensuring that victims receive the best possible care without unnecessary delays. The impact of these initiatives is evident in the data. In 2024, the average response time for an ambulance to reach the accident site dropped to 11.17 minutes, a significant improvement from 13.46 minutes in 2021. Furthermore, the time taken to transport victims to hospitals has also decreased. The average time for hospital delivery is now 18.01 minutes, down from 21.50 minutes in 2022, reflecting the effectiveness of the new system.
This initiative not only saves lives but also represents a model for other states to address emergency response challenges. Tamil Nadu’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery through innovation and data-driven solutions has set a benchmark for emergency services nationwide. By identifying ‘super-hotspots’ and adapting ambulance services to meet the unique needs of these accident-prone areas, Tamil Nadu has made significant strides in reducing response times and improving survival rates. This approach serves as a timely reminder that, in emergency services, every second counts, and strategic innovation can make all the difference in saving lives.
