Ambulances meant to transport patients in cases of medical emergencies in Punjab are themselves in a pathetic state, the state Vigilance Bureau said on Friday. The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB), assisted by medical teams, conducted surprise checks of ambulances operating under 'Dial 108' scheme across the state and found that medical equipment to handle emergencies and other facilities were non-existent or non-functional in the ambulances.

Under Emergency Response Services, the 'Dial 108' ambulance can be called in case of a medical emergency by dialing the number. It is currently available in 22 states. Vigilance Bureau Chief Director-cum-ADGP B.K. Uppal said that the bureau had received complaints about the poor condition of these ambulances at some places, following which it had planned a statewide check.