Maharashtra`s Thane auto-rickshaw drivers has been getting cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and basic first aid trainings to act as the first responders during emergency situations on streets of the city, officials said.
“The auto-rickshaw drivers from the busy streets were given basic training of CPR and first aid, recognising their role as first responders in road accidents and medical emergencies,” an official said.
More than 100 auto-rickshaw drivers are taking part in the first phase of the initiative, officials said.
The training programme focuses on CPR, basic trauma care and patient stabilisation.
Practical sessions are conducted under medical supervision, using mannequins to help drivers understand and practise life-saving techniques.
Each participant is also being given a first-aid kit to keep in their vehicle, allowing them to provide basic assistance until ambulances or emergency services arrive.
Bridging the gap in emergency care
Hospital officials said traffic congestion in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) often delays emergency vehicles, while auto-rickshaw drivers are usually among the first to reach accident sites or medical emergencies in public places.
The programme aims to bridge the crucial time gap between an incident and professional medical care, they added.
Early intervention can save lives
Doctors associated with the programme said early intervention can greatly improve survival chances in cases of road injuries and sudden cardiac arrest.
Emergency medicine specialists overseeing the sessions stressed that even simple actions taken in the first few minutes can prevent a patient’s condition from worsening.
Oral health screenings for drivers
Along with emergency training, KIMS Hospitals is also conducting oral health screenings for participating drivers.
Doctors said auto-rickshaw drivers are a high-risk group for oral cancer, mainly due to tobacco consumption, and early detection through routine screening can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Community outreach effort
The initiative is being implemented in association with the Amar Gharat Foundation, which is coordinating with local auto-rickshaw unions and drivers to ensure smooth participation in the programme.
