Assam: Infant dies midway to hospital, family blames lack of oxygen in ambulance

A heart-wrenching incident has stirred public anger after an eight-month-old infant, died allegedly due to the absence of oxygen in a private ambulance on Thursday, September 4.

The baby, who had been suffering from fever, was initially admitted to Sribhumi Civil Hospital. As her condition worsened, doctors referred her to Silchar Medical College and Hospital (SMCH) for advanced treatment.

With no government ambulance available at the time, the family had no choice but to hire a private ambulance. However, midway through the journey near Bakharsal, on the outskirts of Sribhumi, the infant reportedly developed severe breathing difficulties. The family alleged that the ambulance lacked a functioning oxygen supply, leaving them helpless.

Despite desperate efforts, the child succumbed before reaching SMCH. The incident has sparked outrage in the local community, raising serious questions about emergency healthcare preparedness and the safety standards of private ambulances operating in the region.

Police reached the spot shortly after receiving information and sent the body for post-mortem examination. The private ambulance and its driver have been detained for investigation. Authorities have assured that the matter will be thoroughly probed to determine accountability.