Union aviation minister Jyotiraditya Scindia announced the launch of India’s Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) on Thursday, with operations set to commence in Uttarakhand.
Key Highlights of HEMS:
- 1. The designated helicopter will be stationed at the All Indian Institute of Medical Science in Rishikesh. This strategic location enables swift response within a radius of 150 km, ensuring timely airlifts of patients to the hospital.
- 2. The HEMS initiative aligns with the government’s broader goal of expanding medical outreach and trauma care services using helicopters. The primary objective is to facilitate the rapid transportation of accident victims and patients from challenging terrains to AIIMS, particularly focusing on the critical ‘golden hour’ post-accident.
- 3.Minister Scindia disclosed that the HEMS operation falls under the umbrella of ‘Project Sanjeevani.’ Currently, the helicopter is undergoing assembly and certification.
- 4.The announcement follows the virtual inauguration by Minister Scindia of the newly constructed terminal building (phase-2) at Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun. The terminal, completed at a cost of ₹486 crore, is poised to accommodate 3,240 passengers during peak hours and serve an impressive 4.7 million passengers annually.
- 5. Minister Scindia revealed plans for the upgrade of three airports: Dehradun, Pant Nagar, and Pithoragarh. Additionally, the number of heliports in the state is slated to increase to 21 in the coming years.
The HEMS under ‘Project Sanjeevani’ holds the promise of saving lives by ensuring swift and efficient medical care, especially in challenging terrains. With ongoing efforts to enhance air connectivity and infrastructure, Uttarakhand is set to witness a new era in emergency medical services.