Ministry of Health has sent ambulances to 11 more islands as part of the government's efforts to develop healthcare services in the atolls.
At the ceremony held to transport the ambulances, Minister of State for Health Ahmed Adil said that ambulances have been sent to 133 islands so far. He noted that this was the first time the ministry is transporting so many ambulances at once, adding that nine more ambulances will be procured on September 10. He assured that these ambulances will also be sent to the islands as soon as they are cleared.
The 11 ambulances are being transported to Muraidhoo, Thakandhoo, Utheemu in Haa Alifu Atoll, Kanditheemu in Shaviyani Atoll, Lhohi and Magoodhoo in Noonu Atoll, Rasgetheemu in Raa Atoll, Goidhoo in Baa Atoll, Thulusdhoo in Kaafu Atoll, Felidhoo in Vaavu Atoll, and Hithadhoo in Laamu Atoll.
The health ministry contracted the State Trading Organisation (STO) to supply 20 ambulances in April. STO has previously brought in 96 ambulances, which were sent to the islands with the greatest need for emergency vehicles. The state-owned company is importing the ambulances from Japan.