In a bid to ensure quicker medical assistance for road crash victims, the Centre is finalising major upgrades to the Automotive Industry Standards (AIS) for ambulances. The draft notification mandates that next-generation ambulances carry vital rescue equipment to extricate victims trapped inside vehicles—an all-too-common challenge following serious accidents.
Mandatory Rescue Tools for Rapid Response
The upgraded ambulances will now include essential tools such as:
- Glass-break or window punch tool
- Rescue axe
- Bolt cutter
- Heavy-duty hydraulic jack
- Basic vehicle tool set
These tools are expected to drastically reduce delays in freeing victims stuck inside mangled vehicles, helping emergency responders act quickly and efficiently.
Specialised Ambulances for Neonatal and Mass Casualty Support
Beyond crash response, the updated standards also propose specialized ambulances to transport sick or premature newborns between hospitals for better care. Additionally, multiple stretcher ambulances will be deployed to manage mass casualty scenarios such as road crashes, fires, and natural disasters.
Nine Equipment Essentials Highlighted in AIS Draft
According to the draft AIS, ambulances must also be fitted with the following:
- Fire extinguisher
- Respiratory protection masks
- LED flashlights or torches
- Reflective warning triangles
- Emergency light bars
- Reflective safety jackets for all crew members
An official confirmed, “The changes needed will be incorporated soon,” signaling that these provisions could become mandatory in the near future.
Addressing Gaps in Current Emergency Response
These changes follow repeated reports of ambulances arriving at accident sites but failing to provide effective assistance due to a lack of proper rescue equipment. Victims often remain trapped in vehicles, losing precious time that could be critical to their survival.
Gadkari Pushes for Functional, Well-Equipped Ambulances
As reported by TOI, Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari has consistently emphasized the need for equipment upgrades. He has also stressed the importance of proper training for ambulance personnel. “Most of the time, it is difficult to find or source cutting tools after crashes. More often than not, ambulances and cranes parked at toll plazas are just showpieces—non-functional,” he stated.
Saving Lives in the Golden Hour
Experts estimate that nearly 50% of road crash fatalities could be prevented if victims receive medical aid within the first hour—often referred to as the “golden hour.” By outfitting ambulances with lifesaving equipment and improving crew readiness, the Centre aims to close this critical gap in emergency care.