108 Emergency service gears up for Diwali rush, data shows 18% surge in calls on New Year’s Day

As Ahmedabad gears up for Diwali celebrations, the 108 Emergency Medical Service in Gujarat has drawn up a comprehensive action plan to manage the surge in medical and accident-related emergencies typically seen during the festive season.

According to a scientific analysis conducted by the service, emergency calls during Diwali tend to rise by nearly 7%, while the day after Diwali witnesses an 8% increase. The highest surge, however, is recorded on New Year’s Day, when calls spike by 18%, followed by a 12% rise on Bhai Beej

Last year, the service handled 4,850 emergency calls during Diwali, 5,700 on New Year’s Day, and 5,400 on Bhai Beej, officials said.

To manage the expected rise in demand, the state has increased its active ambulance fleet from 800 to 1,460, adding 550 new ambulances this year. “We have expanded our network and strengthened coordination to ensure that every emergency receives a prompt response,” said Jaswant Prajapati, COO of the 108 Emergency Service.

Officials said technology will play a crucial role in improving response times. The system will use real-time mobile location tracking to identify the caller’s exact position, allowing ambulances to reach them faster.

Government hospitals have also been alerted in advance to prepare for the anticipated surge in emergency cases, especially as many doctors in private hospitals are on leave during the festive period. “Coordination between public hospitals and our teams will ensure that critical patients receive timely care,” Prajapati added.

Data from previous years indicates that road accidents, burn injuries, and electrocution cases tend to spike during Diwali. Last year alone, road accidents rose by 131% during the festival period.

Authorities have urged citizens to exercise caution while bursting crackers, driving, and handling electrical decorations. “Public cooperation in following road safety and traffic rules can significantly help prevent accidents,” said Prajapati.

The 108 service, which provides free emergency medical assistance across Gujarat, will remain on high alert throughout the Diwali week, ensuring round-the-clock readiness to tackle any crisis.