GANGTOK, August 21, 2025: Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) on Thursday flagged off the expansion of the state’s 102 and 108 Ambulance Services, an initiative of the Health and Family Welfare Department, Government of Sikkim. The launch event, held in the presence of Health Minister G.T. Dhungel, Secretary Health Tshewang Gyachho Bhutia, and senior officials of the Health Department and Mechanical Cell, marks a significant boost to the state’s emergency medical response system.
Under the expansion, nine new ambulances have been added to the fleet, ensuring wider reach and quicker response across districts. The distribution includes one ambulance for Gangtok, two for Pakyong, and six for Namchi district.
Integrated, Free-of-Cost Services
Sikkim has adopted an integrated ambulance system, combining both 102 and 108 services for optimum utilization. Citizens can avail these services free of cost by dialing the toll-free numbers 102 or 108.
• 102 Service: Primarily dedicated to transporting pregnant women and sick neonates up to one year of age.
• 108 Service: Focused on handling trauma and emergency cases.
Additional Features
The upgraded ambulance network will provide:
• Free pick-up and drop to designated health facilities.
• Inter-facility transfers for patients requiring specialized care.
• Drop-back services for postnatal mothers and infants.
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Tamang said the expansion reaffirms the government’s commitment to accessible healthcare. “Our priority is to ensure that every citizen, especially vulnerable groups like mothers and infants, have access to timely and reliable medical transportation,” he stated.
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Health officials expressed confidence that the strengthened ambulance services will significantly reduce delays in emergency medical care, particularly in remote areas of the state.
