Row over MLA-fund ambulance in Daryapur leaves poor patients worried

An ambulance belonging to the Daryapur Municipal Council in Amravati district has become entangled in a political dispute. It was given to the council from the local area development fund of MLA Balwant Wankhede so that poor and needy people could reach hospital. Differences have now arisen in the council over its use.

It is alleged that the service is being sidelined on the grounds of cost. This has revived discussion of the council's resolution of August 25.

The BJP earlier held power in the Daryapur Municipal Council. At that time, Congress MLA Balwant Wankhede provided the ambulance from his MLA fund. The main aim was to ensure economically weaker patients got medical help in time. Many needy people benefited. Even after the change of power, the ambulance continued to serve patients for some time.

Later, the Congress came to power in the council, and the mayor, along with some Congress councillors, moved towards the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction). Since then, the ambulance has been at the centre of political discussion. It is being said that the council cannot bear the cost of diesel and petrol, the driver's honorarium, and maintenance and repairs.

An objection has been filed against the August 25 resolution. The objection is that the decision was taken without taking Health Committee chairman Habib Khan into confidence. People say the ambulance, received for public benefit, should remain in the service of citizens.

Private ambulance fares are beyond the means of ordinary people. If the council's facility stops, poor patients could face difficulty. Citizens are therefore demanding that political differences be set aside, the ambulance be restarted and put to proper use.

The key points of the dispute are clear. The council's resolution was passed on August 25. There is an objection to the Health Committee chairman not being taken into confidence. The issue of the ambulance's costs is heated, and questions are being raised about the use of a public health service.