The government will deploy armed forces personnel, if necessary, and acquire 150 new ambulances, to boost the capacity and efficiency of the 1990 Suwasariya emergency ambulance service, Health and Media Minister Dr Nalinda Jayatissa announced on Thursday (30). This decision is part of a comprehensive plan to address staff shortages, improve service delivery, and overcome operational challenges.

Speaking during a meeting at the Suwasariya Ambulance Service Centre in Rajagiriya, Dr Jayatissa stated that a proposal to procure the ambulances had already been submitted to the Cabinet. He emphasised that deploying armed forces personnel could help maintain uninterrupted service, despite staff shortages, ensuring the continuity of this essential public service.

Initially launched with support from the Indian government, the Suwasariya service is now fully operated by the Sri Lankan government, offering free pre-hospital emergency care across all provinces via the 1990 hotline. Currently, the service operates 322 ambulances, with 25 provided directly by the government. It receives over 5,000 calls and handles approximately 1,050 emergencies daily.

During an inspection of the service, Dr Jayatissa reviewed operations at the emergency response and control centre, telephone call centre, and ambulance units. He later held discussions with the board of directors of the 1990 Suwasariya Foundation to explore future plans and immediate solutions to ongoing challenges.

Key issues highlighted included a shortage of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), poor working conditions, and the need for enhanced training programmes. Dr Jayatissa stressed the importance of offering competitive salaries and job security to retain staff and maintain high service standards. Additional proposals included the introduction of new uniforms and increasing budget allocations from the Treasury.

The Minister also underscored the need to secure local and international funding to support the service’s expansion. Public awareness campaigns were proposed to promote the service’s benefits, along with efforts to strengthen ambulance coverage in tourist-heavy regions to meet the needs of foreign visitors.

The meeting was attended by Suwasariya Foundation Chairman Niroshan Ratnayake and board members, including Dr Aruna Palitha Sampath, Nalin Ratnadeep Perera, Sherwin Arsakularatne, and Tarindu Kariyawasam.

With the implementation of the government’s strategic plan, the Suwasariya ambulance service aims to become a more efficient and sustainable system, continuing its vital role in delivering timely emergency medical care.