Infra hubs urgently need emergency medical rooms

Representational Image

The Central Railway has taken an important step to enhance passenger safety by establishing emergency medical rooms (EMRs) at several railway stations across its Mumbai Division.

EMRs are already operational at the Byculla, Kalyan, and Vashi railway stations. Additionally, Kalwa, Titwala, and Karjat stations' EMRs have also become operational under newly awarded contracts.

The initiative aims to provide immediate First Aid and emergency care to bona fide passengers and Railway staff facing medical emergencies due to accidents, sudden illness, or other incidents.

It is heartening to note that work is ongoing at seven more stations, including Lokmanya Tilak Terminus, Kurla, and Ghatkopar. The EMRs are designed to provide quick and effective support during the crucial ‘golden hour' of a medical emergency.

Each facility is equipped with basic life-support equipment, oxygen supply, stretchers, essential medicines, portable laboratory services, medical store support and ambulance facilities. Medical staff are also available.

This is a heartening initiative, and citizens will surely benefit if other transport arms or agencies can implement this. One does agree that space and resources are concerns and numerous permissions are needed, but if EMRs can be included in some infra hubs across the city, it will be significant for passenger safety. Even small stations with some basic equipment and a dedicated ambulance will make a huge difference. Our new and expanding Metro network, too, may look at something like this. So it is with our BEST bus depots, maybe not all, but certain key spaces with medical basics can help staffers. Commuter safety is citizen safety.