KATHMANDU, Oct 16: Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has launched a motorcycle ambulance service to provide faster emergency medical assistance in narrow alleys, densely populated neighbourhoods and areas inaccessible to four-wheeled ambulances.
Deputy Mayor Sunita Dangol announced the service on Friday, saying traffic congestion and narrow roads often prevent ambulances from reaching patients on time despite an adequate number of vehicles in the city.
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The metropolitan city is also working with hospitals and health institutions to expand access to treatment for people who cannot afford medical care. It has partnered with 13 institutions to support infrastructure, equipment and direct healthcare services.
In Kirtipur, the city has established a fund to cover treatment costs for burn patients who might otherwise be unable to afford care. It is also supporting infrastructure development at Kanti Children’s Hospital and in Dallu, while intensive care unit upgrades at Manmohan Hospital are nearing completion.
The city also operates a free ambulance service in partnership with Nepal Ambulance Service. Residents can access the service by calling 102, which is available across Kathmandu Metropolitan City and other local units in the valley.
The new motorcycle ambulances are expected to improve emergency response in areas where traffic congestion and narrow streets make access difficult for conventional ambulances.