K'taka health min Khader fixes 15-min deadline for 108 Ambulance service; Rs 5,000 fine for delays

Udupi, July 5: In a major overhaul aimed at saving lives lost during the “golden hour”, the Karnataka government has mandated a strict 15-minute response time for 108 ambulance services across the state, with health minister U T Khader announcing a Rs 5,000 penalty for drivers who fail to reach emergency locations within the stipulated time.

The move comes amid growing public concern over delayed ambulance arrivals in critical emergencies such as road accidents, childbirth complications and sudden cardiac arrests, where even a few minutes’ delay can prove fatal. 

Reports from across Karnataka have highlighted instances where ambulances take over an hour in rural areas and 20–30 minutes in cities, raising questions over the efficiency of the emergency response system.

Officials have attributed the delays to ageing vehicles, technical breakdowns and systemic inefficiencies, which have repeatedly prevented timely medical intervention and cost precious lives.

Announcing the new framework in Udupi, health minister U T Khader said the state would now enforce strict timelines to ensure accountability and faster response under the 108 emergency service.

“Ambulances must reach the location within 15 minutes of receiving a call. If they reach within 15 minutes, nearly 90% of emergency cases can be stabilised. When response times are delayed, the system fails. We need around 700 to 800 ambulances in proper working condition. While the national standard is 20 minutes, Karnataka will now aim for 15 minutes. Any delay beyond that will attract a Rs 5,000 penalty. Detailed guidelines will be issued soon,” Khader said.

Under the reform plan, the health department has outlined a comprehensive upgrade of the emergency response system. A high-tech centralised control room will be established to monitor distress calls and accurately track the real-time location of ambulances, improving coordination and response efficiency.

The state will enforce strict response benchmarks, targeting 15-minute arrivals in urban areas and 20–25 minutes in rural regions, with continuous monitoring to ensure compliance.

Old and frequently malfunctioning ambulances will be phased out and replaced with modern, fully equipped life-support vehicles designed for faster and more reliable emergency care.

In a technology-driven upgrade, a real-time tracking system similar to ride-hailing platforms such as Uber and Ola will allow citizens to monitor ambulance movement and estimated arrival times directly on their mobile phones.

The government will also introduce specialised training programmes for ambulance drivers and paramedical staff to enhance emergency handling skills and improve on-ground response during critical situations.

Authorities have stated that the reforms are aimed at ensuring that no life is lost due to delays in emergency medical transport in the future.

With new tenders and updated operational guidelines expected shortly, Karnataka is set to roll out a faster, smarter and more accountable 108 ambulance network, offering renewed hope to patients and families dependent on critical emergency care.