Maharashtra’s MEMS 108 Ambulance Project to transform emergency services

New Delhi: The Maharashtra Government has announced an initiative in collaboration with Sumeet Facilities Limited India, Grupo SSGMatrix from Spain, and former service operator BVG India to launch the new Maharashtra Emergency Medical Services (MEMS) 108 Ambulance Project. 

This 10-year project aims to revolutionize emergency medical services in the state by integrating advanced technology and global standards to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in patient care.

The MEMS 108 Ambulance Project marks a significant shift from the existing Patient Transportation Services (PTS) model to a more comprehensive emergency medical service. By equipping ambulances with specialized medical equipment, the project seeks to maximize the critical “golden hour” in emergency situations, offering pre-hospital care that stabilizes patients and facilitates prompt transportation to nearby medical facilities. Covering emergencies such as road accidents, critical diseases, and natural calamities, this initiative will operate under the State National Health Mission to deliver timely healthcare services across Maharashtra.

Vice Chairman of Sumeet Group Enterprises, Summit Salunke, emphasized the project’s commitment to enhancing Maharashtra’s public health infrastructure. He highlighted the government’s leadership in elevating the state’s EMS industry to match European and North American standards. 

Diego Prieto Oliver, Vice-Chairman of SSG Transporte Sanitario SL, echoed these sentiments, “This initiative, which redefines emergency care as a network that brings hospital-level care to the patient, represents a substantial advancement that will revolutionize the EMS industry in India.”

The MEMS 108 project is structured under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) using a Design-Build-Finance-Operate-Transfer (DBFOT) model, the first of its kind in India. With 51% of the capital expenditure funded by the service provider and 49% by the government, the project aims to integrate cutting-edge medical technology, data analytics, and high-tech communication systems. An Emergency Response Center (ERC) will be established, adhering to NG911 standards, and staffed by a specialized team of doctors to ensure 24/7 medical support throughout the state.

This initiative is expected to create over 14,000 jobs across skilled and semi-skilled categories, contributing to significant employment opportunities in Maharashtra. The project aims to deliver equitable healthcare access to the state’s 14 crore citizens, enhancing public trust through improved service delivery and reducing healthcare costs by optimizing resource use and strengthening disaster management capabilities.

The MEMS 108 Ambulance Project will be rolled out across Maharashtra in five phases over the coming months, nearly doubling the existing fleet from 937 to 1,756 vehicles. The expanded fleet will include Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulances, Basic Life Support (BLS) vehicles, Neo-Natal ambulances, First Responder Bikes, Sea Boat ambulances, and River Boat ambulances. The new fleet will feature high-end body kits made from ABS/PPMA materials for increased durability and strength. 

Advanced medical equipment and a comprehensive KPI-based reporting structure will ensure better patient outcomes. The project also includes cutting-edge technology integrations such as Mobile Data Terminals (MDT), tablet PCs, RFID, GPS, caller location tracking, CCTV, TRIAGE systems, Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD), and a Vehicle Tracking and Management System (VTMS). Enhanced training modules will be developed for all personnel to ensure preparedness and effective emergency response.

In terms of financial commitment, the total capital expenditure procurement value has significantly increased from approximately Rs. 240 crores for 937 ambulances in 2013 to approximately Rs. 870 crores for 1,756 ambulances in 2024. The Maharashtra Government plans to introduce further innovations, including the use of helicopters and drones for rapid medical assistance and a Patient Arrival Intimation System in all hospitals across the state.