Pictures by Bibhash Lodh/BS News Agency.
Sanchita Chatterjee, BS News Agency, Kolkata, 7th January 2025: Every life saved begins with a race against time and at the heart of that race are ambulance drivers who navigate chaos, uncertainty and urgency to deliver hope. Honouring these unsung heroes and their families, Manipal Hospitals Kolkata organised ‘Salute the Real Heroes Family’, a heartfelt initiative dedicated to ambulance drivers and their families, in the presence of Dr. Kishen Goel, Consultant and Head of Emergency, Manipal Hospitals, Kolkata; Dr. Indranil Das, Senior Consultant – Emergency Medicine, Dr. Saurav Das, Consultant - Interventional Cardiology, Manipal Hospital, EM Bypass; Dr. Sujoy Das Thakur, Consultant & In-Charge – Emergency Medicine, Dr. Subhasish Deb, Consultant – Cardiologist, Manipal Hospital, Mukundapur; Dr. Osama Ashfaque, Department Emergency, Manipal Hospital, Dhakuria and Prof (Dr.) Rakhi Sanyal Dutta Sarma, Senior Consultant - Internal Medicine, Manipal Hospital, Broadway and other eminent specialists in observance of World Ambulance Day. The event was conceptualised to recognise the selfless dedication of ambulance drivers who serve as the first responders during medical emergencies, often becoming the crucial link between life and death. Through this initiative, Manipal Hospitals aimed to extend gratitude to the drivers and to their families who stand by them through demanding and unpredictable schedules.
Pictures by Bibhash Lodh/BS News Agency.
The programme began with a warm welcome and formal introduction, setting the tone for the day, followed by the launch of a specially curated Wellness Plan and Privilege Card for ambulance drivers and their families. A felicitation ceremony thereafter recognised exemplary drivers for their unwavering commitment and dedicated service. The event also featured Basic Life Support (BLS) training sessions led by doctors from Manipal Hospitals, equipping drivers with vital life-saving skills. An informative session on Manipal Hospitals’ healthcare services further enhanced awareness around emergency care, after which an ambulance rally was flagged off, symbolising speed, preparedness, and the urgency that defines lifesaving response. The day concluded on a celebratory note with engaging family games and fun activities, fostering togetherness and honouring the families who stand as the silent strength behind these frontline heroes.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Kishen Goel said, “Ambulance drivers are often the first medical contact in moments of distress, and their calm presence and swift response save countless lives every day. Through this initiative, we aim to recognise their contribution and reaffirm their vital role within the healthcare ecosystem. In India, delayed medical care significantly affects outcomes, with over 50% of cardiac arrest patients reaching hospitals late. Timely intervention in emergencies like accidents or cardiac arrest can be lifesaving. By providing BLS training, we are empowering individuals to act as immediate responders. Manipal Hospitals remains committed to building a skilled force to effectively manage life-threatening situations.”
Dr. Indranil Das stated, “In medical emergencies, a trained individual can mean the difference between life and death. Through the ‘Salute the Real Heroes’ initiative, we are equipping ambulance drivers with essential BLS training to strengthen emergency response. We also recognise that their contribution goes beyond their professional role. Through family engagement programmes and health cards, we are focusing on their overall well-being. By supporting both their professional skills and personal lives, we aim to empower them to continue their invaluable service with confidence and pride.”
Dr. Sujoy Das Thakur said, “Ambulance drivers are often the first responders during critical emergencies such as heart attacks, strokes, and accidents. Their quick decisions during the golden hour can directly impact patient survival. Through this initiative, Manipal Hospitals seeks to equip these unsung heroes with essential skills while also extending meaningful support to their families. By recognising both the drivers and their loved ones, we acknowledge the unseen strength behind emergency care one that helps lifesaving begin long before a patient reaches the hospital.”