The “Suwa Seriya” ambulance service, which provides free emergency medical care across Sri Lanka via the 1990 hotline, is set to expand under a new initiative aimed at improving efficiency and addressing operational challenges, Health and Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa announced.
Speaking during a visit to the Suwa Seriya Ambulance Service headquarters in Rajagiriya, Jayatissa said the government is committed to strengthening the service by addressing key issues, including staff shortages, training needs, and funding constraints. Originally launched as a donation from the Indian government, Suwa Seriya is now fully operated by the Sri Lankan government.
During the visit, the minister inspected the service’s emergency dispatch and control unit, telephone communication center, and a fully equipped ambulance. He later held discussions with the Board of Directors of the 1990 Suwa Seriya Foundation to review the service’s current operations and future plans.
Concerns raised during the discussions included the shortage of emergency medical technicians (EMTs), the need for better employee facilities, and recruitment challenges. Officials also discussed increasing budget allocations, improving salaries, and introducing a new uniform for staff.
The minister stressed the importance of staff retention through competitive salaries and enhanced training programs. The possibility of engaging security forces personnel in operations, if required, was also discussed, along with additional training opportunities for existing staff.
A Cabinet paper has been submitted to acquire 150 new ambulances to strengthen the fleet, officials revealed. The discussion also focused on expanding and promoting the service in high-tourist areas to ensure emergency medical support for foreign visitors.
Currently, Suwa Seriya operates 322 ambulances across Sri Lanka, including 25 provided by the government. The service handles over 5,000 emergency calls daily, responding to approximately 1,050 incidents. (NewsWire)