Odisha to Integrate Ambulance Booking into Odisha Yatri App for Faster Emergency Response

In a move aimed at revolutionising emergency healthcare access, the Odisha government is set to integrate ambulance booking services into the Odisha Yatri app, Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena announced during a press conference on Monday.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Commerce and Transport Department in collaboration with the Health and Family Welfare Department and the Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT), is designed to enable seamless online booking of both government and private ambulances, as well as auto-rickshaws and taxis, through a single mobile application.

Transparent and Accessible Emergency Services

Minister Jena stated that the integration will ensure faster emergency response times, especially in rural and underserved areas, which often face challenges in accessing immediate medical help. To promote transparency, the government will implement fixed fare structures for private ambulances, which will be visible to users through the app.

“Citizens will be able to make real-time appointments with both public and private ambulances using the Odisha Yatri app,” said Jena. “Private ambulance operators will soon be brought on board.”

Zero Commission, 100% Payment to Drivers

The Odisha Yatri app is built on the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) framework and will operate on a zero-fee basis, meaning drivers and operators will receive 100% of the payment made by users. While CRUT will oversee the operational aspects, the Transport Department will handle app maintenance and technical upgrades.

Tech-Driven Solution for Rural Emergency Needs

According to health officials, the tech-based integration will help reduce delays in emergency situations, especially in areas with limited ambulance access. The initiative is expected to save lives by improving coordination and availability of medical transport.

With intensified monsoon activity and flood alerts across Odisha until June 20, early availability of emergency transport services may prove crucial in flood-hit and remote areas. Social media reactions, especially on X, have already shown public support, with users welcoming the app’s life-saving potential.

A Step Towards Inclusive Mobility

The Odisha government’s push to digitise emergency medical transport underscores its commitment to inclusive and accessible public mobility, ensuring that no region, rural or urban, is left behind in times of crisis.