India, Dec. 23 -- Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today flagged off 150 new '108' emergency ambulances to strengthen healthcare services in the state. The ambulances were inaugurated at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar.

The launch marks a major step in upgrading the state's emergency medical response system. The health Department has planned to deploy a total of 428 new ambulances across Odisha at a cost of Rs 111 crore. In the first phase, 150 ambulances have been made operational, while the remaining vehicles will be inducted into service soon.

The new fleet will replace 419 old ambulances that have completed their service life. Two ambulances that were completely damaged in accidents will also be replaced.

In addition, 5 Adva...