Drivers and co-drivers associated with the 108 ambulance services in Jharkhand have begun an indefinite strike from Tuesday, demanding salaries and other basic facilities. Its effect has been felt in many districts, including Ranchi.
When no ambulance was available to take a pregnant woman to the hospital, a family was forced to bring her to Sadar Hospital in an e-rickshaw. However, the woman gave birth at the hospital gate itself on Tuesday.
Hundreds of ambulance workers across the State are on strike. They have alleged that the company has not paid salaries for the last six months. Apart from this, regular maintenance of ambulances and appointment letters have not been provided to the employees.
The workers said they had given written notice of the strike to the Health Department and the Deputy Commissioner of District 14 days ago, but no one paid attention to their problems, and ultimately, they were forced to protest.
The main demands of the workers include regular salary payment, a proper vehicle maintenance system, formal appointment letters, insurance and other social security facilities for the employees.
A warning has been given that the strike will continue until proper action is taken on these demands.
Notably, State BJP President and Leader of the Opposition Babulal Marandi has also written to Chief Minister Hemant Soren, urging him to take the demands of the ambulance workers seriously.
He has asked the Chief Minister to ensure that the genuine demands of the workers are fulfilled so that health facilities across the State are not affected.
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