Vasai-Virar Mayor seeks dedicated emergency medical coach in Western Railway trains to save lives

Mayor Rajiv Patil accepts proposal for emergency medical coach in Western Railway AC locals from Corporator Aashish Vartak. PIC/BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

With the Vasai-Virar region witnessing rapid population growth and rising healthcare demands in Palghar district, Vasai-Virar City Municipal Corporation (VVCMC) Mayor Rajiv Patil has raised a demand for a dedicated emergency medical coach in the forthcoming air-conditioned local trains on Western Railway.

The proposal, forwarded through Corporator Aashish Vartak, highlights the life-threatening delays faced by patients needing urgent transfer to Mumbai hospitals.

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"In cases of sudden serious illness or accidents, people from Vasai-Virar and Palghar often face delays of around two-three hours due to heavy traffic on highways," the mayor's office stated, adding, "Such delays have, in some unfortunate cases, led to loss of life."

The suggested emergency medical coach would be equipped with basic life-saving facilities, trained medical staff, and arrangements for on-board treatment, enabling faster and safer transport to Mumbai's major hospitals.

Patil has already held preliminary discussions with senior Western Railway officials, along with Deputy Mayor Marshal Loppes, at VVCMC headquarters. The proposal also seeks coordination with the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) and the Maharashtra government to make the facility operational.

Mayor pushes for medical coach to tackle road congestion risks

The demand draws inspiration from the successful 108 ambulance service run by the BVG Group under the state government. Officials noted that most railway stations now have lift facilities on every platform, making it easier to move patients on stretchers during emergencies.

If implemented, the medical coach could prove to be a significant step in saving lives in the Vasai-Virar-Palghar belt, where road congestion frequently hampers timely medical access.

Mayor Patil has urged the state government and railway authorities to take up the matter urgently.

"This is a matter of public health and safety. We hope a positive decision is taken soon after discussions with all stakeholders," he said.

Western Railway is yet to respond officially to the proposal, but the idea has gained support among local citizens and elected representatives in the region.