Bhubaneswar: In a significant step to improve public healthcare services and citizen support, the Odisha government has announced the launch of a statewide hearse service along with key initiatives to address gaps in rural healthcare delivery.
Under the new system, families will be able to access hearse services by dialing a toll-free number 109, ensuring dignified and timely transportation of deceased individuals. The specially equipped vehicles will be stationed at District Headquarters Hospitals (DHHs) and government medical colleges, enabling quick deployment across the state.
In parallel, the government plans to expand primary healthcare infrastructure by establishing Aayu Arogya Mandirs in every gram panchayat, aimed at delivering accessible and preventive healthcare at the grassroots level.
To tackle the shortage of doctors in government hospitals, the state will also deploy postgraduate diploma holders to strengthen medical services, particularly in underserved and remote areas.
Officials said the combined measures reflect the government’s focus on compassionate public services, rural health access, and systemic strengthening of healthcare delivery, ensuring support to citizens from primary care to end-of-life services.
-OdishaAge
