NTPC Bongaigaon has commenced a boat ambulance service aimed at increasing healthcare accessibility in flood-prone riverine villages in Assam. The initiative demonstrates the company’s dedication to community welfare as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme. Three fully equipped boat ambulances were launched in a ceremony held on 30 June in New Delhi, focusing on serving the Kokrajhar district.

Details of the Initiative

The project, costing ₹20 lakh, has been implemented in collaboration with the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) and the Directorate of Health Services, BTC. This initiative addresses ongoing healthcare challenges encountered by residents of remote char areas, which are often isolated during the annual flooding season. By utilising boat ambulances, health services are expected to reach these communities without interruption.

The launch was officiated by Derhasat Basumatary, Executive Member for Health & Family Welfare, BTC. He was accompanied by Moon Moon Brahma and Nilu Brahma, both of whom hold significant positions within the BTC, along with senior officials from NTPC Bongaigaon and local community representatives. The event highlighted the collaborative efforts aimed at improving healthcare access in challenging conditions.

These specially designed vessels are to be deployed in Khutabagra and nearby riverine villages, ensuring continuous healthcare services even when road networks become inaccessible due to flooding. The boat ambulances are equipped with essential medical supplies and staffed by qualified healthcare professionals. The services offered will include emergency patient transportation, routine medical care, maternal and child health services, immunisations, and treatment for common ailments.

Healthcare Provision During Emergencies

Derhasat Basumatary remarked on the importance of the initiative in providing timely medical assistance to vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, children, and elderly individuals. He emphasised that the boat ambulance service aims to fill a critical gap in healthcare provision, particularly during flood situations when residents are especially at risk.

Moon Moon Brahma underscored the significance of partnerships between public institutions and responsible corporate entities in enhancing healthcare outcomes, particularly in rural regions that frequently face natural disasters. She acknowledged NTPC Bongaigaon’s ongoing investment in community development, highlighting the impact of this new service on local health infrastructure.

Nilu Brahma, the Director of Health Services for BTC, pointed out that these floating ambulances will act as mobile healthcare units, bringing essential services directly to isolated communities. He noted that the initiative would also facilitate routine immunisations and emergency medical responses, thus fortifying the public health system in areas that typically have limited access.

Long-Term Commitment to Healthcare Initiatives

The healthcare sector is a key focus for NTPC Bongaigaon within its CSR activities. Officials from the company stated that the boat ambulance service is a reflection of its commitment to mitigating geographical barriers that hinder vulnerable populations from obtaining quality medical care. The ambulances are designed to offer year-round services, also acting as a crucial support system during flood emergencies.

Over the years, NTPC Bongaigaon has undertaken several impactful CSR initiatives in healthcare, including medical camps, cancer screening programmes, and the enhancement of healthcare infrastructure. The introduction of the boat ambulance service is viewed as a significant advancement in the effort to improve healthcare accessibility and generate a lasting social impact in some of Assam’s most remote, flood-prone regions.

This new service ultimately aims to ensure that essential medical assistance reaches those in need, reinforcing NTPC Bongaigaon’s role as a proactive participant in community health and well-being.

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