Staff Shortage Leaves 108 Ambulance Services in Udupi District Struggling

In a developing crisis, 108 ambulance services across the Udupi district are struggling due to a severe shortage of trained staff. Rural and urban health centres alike are unable to staff their emergency fleets to capacity, according to recent reports.

The deficit stems from a combination of low recruitment rates, departed personnel seeking better pay elsewhere, and a lack of refresher training programs. Local health officials say the gap is widening as more trainees fail to meet certification standards, leaving many ambulances operating with insufficient crews.

Without adequate manpower, ambulance response times are lengthening, potentially endangering patients in life‑threatening situations. Service delays could lead to increased morbidity and strain on emergency hospitals, prompting calls for urgent government intervention. Source: Google News – Udupi.