Bhubaneswar, December 18: In a major push to ensure life-saving treatment within the critical “golden hour,” the government has unveiled an ambitious plan to streamline ambulance movement to AIIMS Bhubaneswar. A dedicated ambulance corridor will soon be developed from Khandagiri Square to AIIMS, ensuring that emergency vehicles no longer get stuck in traffic.

Under the joint initiative of the Central and State governments, the existing service road will be widened and upgraded. Wherever necessary, drains will be relocated and land acquisition will be undertaken to remove bottlenecks and create a seamless route.

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has already completed a preliminary survey, and work on the Detailed Project Report (DPR) is expected to begin shortly. At present, the stretch alternates between two and three lanes. The entire road will be converted into a uniform three-lane corridor, with one lane exclusively reserved for ambulances.

This ambulance-only lane will be clearly marked in yellow. To prevent misuse, security personnel will be deployed, and CCTV surveillance will be installed at key points. Vehicles found violating the rules by entering the ambulance lane will face strict penalties, NHAI officials said.

The plan was reviewed during a high-level meeting chaired by Works and Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan. The meeting was attended by Ekamra MLA Babu Singh, Khordha District Collector Amrit Ruturaj, and senior officials from various departments.

Beyond the corridor, discussions also focused on the overall development of the AIIMS area, including improvements to the sewerage system, reconstruction of internal and surrounding roads, and better lighting. The minister directed officials to strengthen traffic management for patients and visitors and to enhance security through CCTV coverage.