AIIMS, Delhi is set to introduce electric buses to enhance last-mile connectivity for patients, their attendants, and caregivers from rail and bus transit points to various key areas within the campus.
This service aims to address issues like long walks, expensive auto-rickshaws, and inconsistent transportation options within the extensive hospital grounds.
The electric buses will feature approximately 20 seats, air conditioning, and low floors for easy boarding. They will also accommodate patients in wheelchairs if needed, according to a memorandum issued on Tuesday.
Dr M Srinivas, Director of AIIMS Delhi, said, “AIIMS Delhi has implemented several changes to improve accessibility and comfort for visitors. In response to the needs of patients and their attendants, we have developed a comprehensive plan to improve connectivity to various interior locations within the Institute by public transit”.
The new patient app will provide the expected arrival times for the buses, the memo noted.
The memorandum mentioned that the Director’s interactions with patients and their attendants highlighted concerns about all-weather connectivity between AIIMS and nearby public transit points, such as the AIIMS and South Extension metro stations and nearby bus stops.
Patients, especially those who are weak or frail, often face long walks or high fares for auto-rickshaws from these transit points to their destinations within the AIIMS campus. Additionally, the sprawling 200-acre campus means that patients visiting areas like Masjid Moth or the Trauma Centre often have to walk long distances from the AIIMS metro station.
There have also been complaints about overcharging by auto-rickshaws, the memo said.
To enhance the patient experience and address these issues, it has been decided to introduce electric buses for transport between nearby public transit points and various locations within the AIIMS campus, in addition to the existing parikrama seva.
The electric buses will be leased on an outsourcing basis. The service provider will adjust the number of buses to ensure service every 10 minutes during peak hours (7 am – 7 pm) and every 15 minutes during off-peak hours (7 pm – 7 am, and on public holidays/Sundays).
The memo outlined that designated bus stops within the AIIMS campus will be recessed from the road and equipped with shading to protect waiting passengers from sun and rain. Each stop will have a call button for patients to notify the service provider of their presence, allowing for the monitoring of waiting times for auditing purposes.
The e-buses will be equipped with CCTV cameras and GPS tracking systems, with real-time CCTV feeds and GPS data accessible to AIIMS administration. A free patient app for iOS and Android will be developed to show real-time bus arrival information and allow users to file complaints about service issues.
Fares will be collected via UPI or AIIMS Smart Card only, with no cash transactions. The service provider may use AIIMS charging infrastructure for a fee or install their own chargers at their expense.
Strict penalty clauses will be included in the tender to ensure service quality, the memo stated.
Dr M Srinivas emphasised, “As part of our efforts to provide top-notch patient care, we are committed to continuously improving the patient experience at AIIMS Delhi. This initiative will address transportation challenges and offer a reliable and convenient means of getting around the campus.”
Dr Rima Dada, professor in charge of the media cell, added, “We want the journey for patients and their attendants to be as smooth and hassle-free as possible”. (With inputs from PTI)
