Daijiworld Media Network - Sullia

Sullia, Oct 29: A conflict over parking arrangements for the 108 emergency ambulance at the Sullia Taluk Public Hospital has intensified, reportedly leading to the refusal of a request to transport a patient to Mangaluru on Monday.

The issue began when a new ambulance was added to the hospital, requiring space in the hospital shed. This left the 108 ambulance without a designated parking spot, forcing it to be parked on the roadside or near the hospital canteen. The 108 ambulance staff had requested proper parking and rest arrangements.

On Monday, a call was made to the 108 service to transport a patient from Sullia Hospital to Mangaluru. However, the central office reportedly declined to deploy the Sullia 108 ambulance. Consequently, another hospital ambulance was used to transport the patient to Mangaluru. With tensions rising, local leaders have urged authorities to resolve the matter swiftly, and it is reported that higher officials have instructed the hospital to address the issue.

"Family members of a patient informed us that the 108 ambulance service refused to take the patient to Mangaluru on Monday morning. An alternate ambulance was arranged, and later another patient was transported using the 108 service. We are unclear about the reasons and have informed higher authorities about the issue," said Dr Karunakar, administrative medical officer of Sullia taluk public hospital.