CM Sukhu Flags Off 26 Advanced Ambulances, Launches Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Saturday flagged off 26 new advanced life support ambulances in Shimla, expanding the National Ambulance Service–108 (NSA) fleet to 241 vehicles. He also launched the Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign, aimed at protecting young people from the harmful effects of tobacco and substance use. Health and Family Welfare Minister Dhani Ram Shandil was present at the event.

Each of the newly inducted ambulances is equipped with 19 advanced life-saving medical devices, including transport ventilators, ECG machines, emergency Ambu bags, oxygen cylinders, and blood pressure monitors. These ambulances will be manned 24×7 by trained medical technicians to provide emergency medical assistance.

CM Sukhu said the ambulances will be deployed across government medical colleges, district and civil hospitals, and other remote locations, ensuring timely response in emergencies. “The state government is working tirelessly to strengthen the healthcare sector and develop world-class infrastructure. These advanced life support ambulances will significantly enhance medical services across Himachal,” he added.

Congratulating the Health Department on the launch of the Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign, Sukhu said, “Himachal Pradesh is among the leading states in the field of public health. This campaign is a crucial step toward protecting our youth from the dangers of tobacco and other addictive substances.”

The 60-day campaign, running until December 8, will focus on awareness, prevention, and strict enforcement of tobacco control laws. The Chief Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating all forms of tobacco use, including e-cigarettes and hookah bars, stating that police and flying squads will conduct regular drives to ensure strict compliance with the ban.