Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Aug 2: Indian Railways has successfully transported a live donor heart by train for the first time, ensuring its timely delivery for transplantation at the U.N. Mehta Institute of Cardiology and Research Centre in Ahmedabad, the Ministry of Railways said on Friday.
The donor heart was transported from Surat to Ahmedabad aboard Train No. 20901 Mumbai Central-Gandhinagar Capital Vande Bharat Express, marking a significant milestone in the use of railways for emergency medical services.
According to the ministry, the mission demonstrated the speed, punctuality and reliability of the Vande Bharat Express while highlighting the expanding role of Indian Railways in supporting critical healthcare services and life-saving organ transportation.
The operation involved meticulous planning and close coordination among Indian Railways, the Railway Protection Force (RPF), Gujarat State Police and medical teams. Every stage of the transport was synchronised to ensure that the donor heart reached the recipient hospital within the prescribed organ viability period.
To facilitate swift movement after the train's arrival, a dedicated Green Corridor was created from Platform No. 1 of Ahmedabad Railway Station to the U.N. Mehta Institute of Cardiology and Research Centre by the RPF and Gujarat State Police, ensuring uninterrupted transport of the organ.
Ahmedabad Divisional Railway Manager Ved Prakash said the mission reflected Indian Railways' commitment to serving society beyond its conventional role of passenger and freight transportation.
"The excellent coordination among Indian Railways, RPF, Gujarat State Police and the medical teams ensured the success of this mission. Contributing towards saving a human life is not only our responsibility but also our highest duty towards service and humanity," he said.
The ministry said the successful operation underscored the capability of the Vande Bharat Express to support time-sensitive medical missions and highlighted the role of modern railway infrastructure in strengthening the country's emergency response system.