The Project Implementation Unit (PIU) of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Bilaspur, has taken a significant step toward ensuring the safety and emergency medical care of commuters traveling on National Highways. Under this initiative, state-of-the-art emergency medical ambulance services have been launched to provide immediate assistance to citizens traveling between Bilaspur and Raigarh on National Highway-49 (NH-49). These advanced ambulances have been strategically deployed at the Paraghat toll plaza and Kesla toll plaza to minimize response time during any untoward incident or medical emergency.

Highlighting the initiative, Shri Mukesh Kumar, Project Director of PIU Bilaspur, stated that ensuring the life and safety of every commuter traveling on the National Highways is NHAI’s topmost priority. The primary objective of this service is to provide immediate life-saving assistance to commuters without any delay during any unforeseen crisis or emergency on the highways. He appealed to the general public to mandatorily save the toll-free number '1033' in their mobile speed dial lists before embarking on long journeys, alongside checking their vehicle's technical condition, as these four digits prove to be a lifesaver during times of distress.

Operating 24x7 across National Highways, the toll-free number '1033' serves as a reliable companion for commuters. This helpline not only provides crane assistance during technical breakdowns such as punctures or engine failures but also ensures swift medical aid if a co-passenger suddenly falls ill during the journey. Additionally, the number is highly effective in removing obstacles such as fallen trees, stray cattle, or heavy debris on the highway, resolving toll plaza and FASTag-related issues, and providing assistance in case of any security concerns.

The operational mechanism of this emergency system is highly streamlined and prompt. The moment a distressed commuter dials 1033, NHAI’s centralized call centre swings into action. Upon tracking the exact geographical location of the incident, an ambulance or patrolling vehicle from the nearest toll plaza is dispatched to the spot within minutes. In the event of an accident, the injured are rushed to the nearest hospital or trauma centre without losing crucial time, while other mechanical breakdowns or route obstructions are promptly cleared using cranes and route patrolling teams to ensure smooth traffic flow.

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RDJ/PJ

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