QUEPEM, May 4 -- GAURESH SATTARKAR

Quepem has been facing a major healthcare emergency as the 108 ambulance service has remained nonfunctional (break down) for the past four days. In the absence of a 108 ambulance, authorities are forced to rely on 108 ambulance from Balli, Sanguem, and Curchorem areas located at considerable distances, causing dangerous delays in critical situations.

A recent incident on Sunday highlights the severity of the issue. A man from Avedem, Quepem, sustained serious injuries after falling from a bike. When locals dialed 108, they were informed that no ambulance was available in Quepem and that one would be arranged from Margao. The patient was left waiting, losing precious time that could have been life-savin...