Nov 09, Kathmandu - The demands made by the United Ambulance Drivers Association-Nepal have not yet been addressed. The association has been demanding that the Health Act, 2075 BS, the provision that only the health sector is allowed to operate ambulances, and the ease of renewal of ambulances currently in categories A, B and C, be repealed.

Similarly, the association demands that health training be provided to ambulance drivers, that ambulance parking be provided in all hospitals, that the government provide health supplies to drivers, necessary medicines in ambulances, and safety clothing to drivers. There are 6,000 ambulances across the country. Association President Nawaraj Lamichhane said that 80 percent of them have not been renewed due to the Act.

He said, "The previous government ignored our demands, we are confident that the current government will address them." Lamichhane said that their demands will be addressed by a government formed on the strength of the citizens and a minister who understands the health sector. Lamichhane said that they are going to present their demands to the Health Minister in a few days.

Earlier, the association had submitted a letter of appeal to the Health Minister and other major parties, urging them to fulfill their demands. He said that due to the Act, other than health institutions, there is a shortage of ambulances in rural areas. He said, “The old ones are old, and new ones have not been able to come, which is increasing the problem of not getting ambulances in rural areas.