Godda: newborn dies as ambulance runs out of oxygen, high-level inquiry planned

A newborn died in an ambulance in Godda district, Jharkhand, after oxygen reportedly ran out on the way from the Poraiyahat Community Health Centre to Sadar Hospital, according to Amar Ujala.

The baby and mother had been referred to Sadar Hospital after the birth, and the family left in the early hours. The family alleged that the driver took Rs 500 from them, supposedly for diesel, and that the oxygen cylinder ran out about 1 to 1.5 km from the CHC. They said the driver then waited 20 to 30 minutes for another cylinder. Doctors at Sadar Hospital reportedly said the baby could have been saved if it had arrived 15 to 20 minutes earlier.

The report says the ambulance had no number plate and had been given to the health department under a CSR fund. The family also said the driver left the vehicle in the hospital compound and fled. These points are allegations; the report does not say they have been verified.

Civil Surgeon Subhash Chandra Sharma called the case serious and said the allegations on oxygen shortage, money collection and an unregistered vehicle are being examined. He said a high-level inquiry committee is being formed and strict action would follow against anyone found responsible.

Why it matters for ambulance owners and drivers

• Registration, number plates and oxygen supply are among the points under examination.
• Charging money from patients in a government-linked ambulance is part of the complaint.