The survey discovered that most ambulances had tyres that were seven to eight years old
KwikFix Auto, a leading automotive aggregator, found that more than 60 per cent of ambulances violate and fail to meet the central government’s mandatory tyre safety requirements.
According to Ravi Chandarana, Co-Founder, KwikFix Auto, Indian law mandates that ambulance owners maintain a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm for their tyres. However, the majority of the examined ambulances failed to comply with this legal requirement. The survey discovered that most ambulances had tyres that were seven to eight years old, often mismatched, which could compromise the vehicle’s control when speeding. Only new ambulances passed the test.
Manshi Modi-Chandarana, Co-Founder, KwikFix Auto, emphasised the gravity of the situation, stating, “Our survey results indicate that this is a pressing issue that needs immediate attention. Ensuring the safety and efficiency of ambulance services is crucial for patient care, response times, and overall road safety.”
The KwikFix Auto survey team worked with fleet operators for the fitness test. Most operators confessed that their vehicles had not been tested for two years or more. Additionally, Chandarana pointed out that many ambulances had neglected clutch plates and batteries.
Although the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways requires annual checks at the local RTO for cabs and autos, no such rule exists for annual vehicle checks for ambulances. In 2016, the transport ministry introduced an Ambulance Code and the National Health Mission, which operates the free ‘108’ ambulance service, established a detailed checklist for ambulances.
These findings serve as a wake-up call for all stakeholders involved in emergency medical services. KwikFix Auto is urging hospitals, ambulance operators, and local authorities to take immediate action and collaborate to resolve this critical issue.
KwikFix Auto plans to raise awareness about the importance of tyre maintenance and safety for emergency vehicles.
