On Tuesday, it was time to appreciate people who played a crucial role in saving lives. GVK-EMRI, which operates the 108 ambulance network in the State, presented certificates – Appreciation for Good Samaritans - to 52 persons, who made calls to 108 to help those involved in road traffic accidents.
Among those who received the certificates from Collector S. A. Raman was his car driver P. Anandan and personal clerk Shaifuddin.
Mr. Anandan, a resident of Keezhpallipattu, Periyar Nagar, said he made a number of calls to 108 when he had witnessed accidents. “Recently, a motorist knocked down an elderly pedestrian on the Chittoor to Cuddalore Road. Both sustained injuries, and I called 108, and an ambulance arrived in 15 minutes,” he said.
B. Prabhudoss, head, marketing and communication, GVK EMRI, Chennai, said the certificates were in appreciation of the “Good Samaritans” who made calls to 108 to help save precious lives.
Uma Shankar, Additional Superintendent of Police, Vellore, said at least 250 persons died in road accidents in Vellore district in a year.
“Most of these accidents occur on rural roads due to triples riding, drunken driving and over-speeding. Parents get their sons 150 cc and 200 cc bikes and many of them cannot control the bikes,” he said.
S. A. Raman, Vellore Collector, expressed concern that Vellore witnessed several road accidents.
“It seems that Vellore district accounts for the highest utilisation of 108 ambulance services in the State. This is because there are more number of accidents in the district, and this is a cause of worry,” he said.
He pointed out that the district has 128 km of National Highways, which are dangerous stretches.
“First responders are essential when wan accident takes place,” he observed.
Some of them, who received certificates, shared their experiences and suggestions to improve the ambulance services.
One of them felt that the ambulances could reach the destinations faster, while another person said that those who make the call should not be asked to accompany the patient.
