Demand for easy renewal of category Ka, Kha, and Ga ambulances
Nepal Health News, Kathmandu – The Joint Ambulance Drivers Association of Nepal has put forward several demands, including the amendment of the Health Act, 2075 (2018 AD), removal of the provision that only the health sector can operate ambulances, and facilitation of the easy renewal process for ambulances currently categorized under classes 'Ka', 'Kha', and 'Ga'.
In addition, the association demands that ambulance drivers be provided with health training, proper ambulance parking facilities be arranged at all hospitals, and that the government supply drivers with medical equipment, essential medicines in ambulances, and protective gear for their safety. According to the association, there are 6,000 ambulances across the country, but 80% of them have not been able to renew their registration due to restrictions in the Act.
In the meantime, the association has submitted letters of concern to major political parties, urging them to address their demands.
A delegation led by the association’s president, Navaraj Lamichhane, submitted the memorandum to key leaders of political parties and the Chairperson of the National Assembly.
The delegation handed over letters of concern to National Assembly Chairperson Narayan Dahal; Chairman of CPN (Maoist Centre) and former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal; Nepali Congress leader Dr. Shekhar Koirala and Vice President Dhanraj Gurung; CPN (UML) General Secretary Shankar Pokharel; and Rastriya Swatantra Party spokesperson Manish Jha.
Likewise, President of Rastriya Prajatantra Party Rajendra Lingden and spokesperson Gyanendra Bahadur Shahi were also approached, with the association requesting their facilitation in fulfilling the demands, according to President Lamichhane.
Earlier, the association had also submitted a memorandum to the Minister for Health and Population, Pradeep Poudel. Furthermore, they have sent similar memorandums to the Health Minister through most of the District Administration Offices across the country.
