Health
108 Ambulance Workers Strike Across Karnataka Over Salary and Security Demands
Ambulance staff have intensified a statewide strike, demanding salary revisions and better security, prompting the health minister to advise the public to use taluk hospital vehicles.
The union representing 108 ambulance workers in Karnataka has escalated its strike across the state, halting regular emergency services. The protest, which began earlier this week, has now intensified as workers seek urgent redressal of their grievances.
The striking personnel are demanding a revision of their salaries and enhanced security measures while on duty. They argue that current compensation does not reflect the risks associated with emergency response, and that inadequate protection exposes them to threats.
In response, Karnataka's Health Minister has appealed to citizens to use alternative transport provided by taluk hospitals for non‑critical medical visits. The minister emphasized that the temporary arrangement aims to ensure continuity of essential health services while negotiations continue.
Authorities are monitoring the situation closely, and officials have indicated that discussions with the union are underway to resolve the dispute and restore normal ambulance operations.
The striking personnel are demanding a revision of their salaries and enhanced security measures while on duty. They argue that current compensation does not reflect the risks associated with emergency response, and that inadequate protection exposes them to threats.
In response, Karnataka's Health Minister has appealed to citizens to use alternative transport provided by taluk hospitals for non‑critical medical visits. The minister emphasized that the temporary arrangement aims to ensure continuity of essential health services while negotiations continue.
Authorities are monitoring the situation closely, and officials have indicated that discussions with the union are underway to resolve the dispute and restore normal ambulance operations.