Cabinet approves MoU for 100 new Suwa Seriya ambulances funded by India

Summarised by AI from 11 articles

The Cabinet of Ministers approved signing a Memorandum of Understanding with India to secure a financial grant to procure 100 fully equipped ambulances for the 1990 Suwa Seriya National Emergency Ambulance Service.

Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa submitted the proposal following a request to India. He said the outright grant totals 1,725.7 million rupees and suppliers will be selected through competitive bidding.

Officials sought the assistance because the existing fleet of 322 ambulances covers about nine million kilometres annually, resulting in wear and tear and frequent mechanical faults.

Launched in 2016 with Indian aid and expanded nationwide in 2018, the free 24-hour service handles 1,000 to 1,200 patient transports daily. The Health Ministry will recruit personnel and handle maintenance.

Summaries can miss detail. Check the original reports below before you cite figures.