108 emergency services continue to be in limbo

SHILLONG, April 15: Challenges ranging from complex state laws to disputes among bidders have put the process of selecting a service provider for Meghalaya’s 108 emergency services in limbo for a long time.
The state government issued a closure notice to GVK EMRI after an 18-month extension of the agreement that expired on March 31, 2021. Since then, the National Health Mission (NHM) has been temporarily managing the ambulance services.
“Complications arise repeatedly with all participants in the tender process. The NHM is managing the 108 services efficiently, but this is not a permanent fix, although we are still unable to select any bidder to take over the services long-term,” Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh said.
She acknowledged the importance of selecting a qualified bidder to ensure the smooth operation of the services and to secure the rights of the workers involved.
“It is mandatory that the 108 services be managed by a qualified bidder. Workers stand to benefit from insurance, maternity leave, and various rights. Unfortunately, when we cannot resolve the issues with the bidding process, our workers are left vulnerable. And that, I believe, is at the heart of the problem,” Lyngdoh said. She stressed the need for improving the services. “We need to upgrade the ambulance fleet; many vehicles are in poor condition. Workers’ accommodation, rights, and privileges remain uncertain because we have not been able to finalise anything. Everything is hanging in the balance,” she admitted.
Stating that the bidding process has been challenging due to the fierce competition and the complex regulatory environment, she said, “Every time we talk about a national bid, we face uncertainty. We don’t know who the bidders will be, where they come from, or whether they can withstand the scrutiny from the community and pressure groups. The moment the government engages with any external company, we are bombarded with a multitude of qualifications to meet.”
The regulatory hurdles continue to complicate matters, especially when it comes to the documentation required from the bidders.
“The problem is that our state is unique. Bidders may meet the general qualifications, but they often fail to provide the necessary documentation, such as trading licenses or proof of experience at the required level. We are constantly stuck in this vicious cycle of accusations and incomplete bids,” Lyngdoh explained.
She also acknowledged the difficulties faced by the local bidders.
“Even our local companies are struggling to meet the documentation and experience standards required to qualify. This only adds to the complexity and makes it all the more challenging to move forward,” she said.
She asserted the state government remains determined to resolve the issue despite the persistent obstacles.