Shimla, Dec. 26 -- The state-run 108 and 102 ambulance services in Himachal Pradesh were completely shut down for 48 hours starting at 8 pm on Thursday. Pressing for their pending demands - demanding wage increases, service security, the call for strike has been issued which is likely to impact the state's emergency healthcare system. However, the health department claims to have alternative arrangements in place. Ambulance workers have clarified that they will not resume services until 8 pm on December 27. They say the strike will continue until they receive written and concrete assurances on their demands. CITU state president Vijender Mehra, said that the employees will proceed on strike under the banner of the CITU-affiliated union to demand the implementation of labor laws and judicial orders, minimum wage, and an end to employee harassment, among other demands. The strike will last for 48 hours and will end at 8 pm on December 27. During this time, ambulance services across the state will be completely disrupted. Strong protests will be held at all district headquarters across the state on both days of the strike."htc...