VIMSAR to Get Helipad for Emergency Airlifts

Sambalpur: The Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR), Burla, is set to establish a helipad on its campus to facilitate helicopter emergency medical services for critically ill patients. The initiative aims to ensure faster patient transfers to premier hospitals in major cities across India.

Sambalpur Sadar tehsildar Manoj Kujur confirmed that land for the helipad has already been identified and demarcated.

VIMSAR superintendent Dr. Lalmohan Nayak said the project, initially proposed three years ago, is now progressing steadily. “Once the helipad becomes operational, it will enable the airlifting of patients requiring advanced treatment to hospitals in cities like Delhi, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Chennai,” he said, highlighting the importance of air ambulances for emergency care, including cancer and cardiac treatment.

Dr. Nayak added that VIMSAR will be the first government hospital in Odisha to have a dedicated helipad for patient evacuation via helicopter.

“Currently, in cases of severe trauma or conditions needing specialised surgery, patients are referred to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack. On average, we refer 4 to 5 patients every month suffering from critical illnesses like cancer or heart disease,” he noted.

The helipad is expected to significantly enhance emergency medical response, cutting down travel time and improving the chances of survival for patients in need of immediate specialised care.