Public frustration is mounting in Quepem as the only ambulance assigned to the local Health Centre has remained non-functional for the past four months, severely affecting emergency medical response in the area. The ambulance, which was recently allotted to improve healthcare services, has been out of commission since it met with an accident and was sent for repairs.
According to sources, the response from health authorities has been sluggish. Former Health Officer Dr. Baptist Mascarenhas reportedly took nearly three months just to initiate the retrieval process for the vehicle. His successor, Dr. Socorro Quadros, who assumed charge a month ago, has now assured that the ambulance will be restored to service within the next 15 days.
Meanwhile, residents are also grappling with waterlogging issues in front of the health centre, caused by clogged and neglected gutters. The stagnant water has created unhygienic conditions, making it uncomfortable and unsafe for patients and visitors, and raising concerns about the risk of vector-borne diseases.
Locals are demanding immediate action from authorities to not only expedite the ambulance repair but also address the sanitation and drainage problems affecting the health facility.