MANDI:
In a groundbreaking initiative, the PGI-Chandigarh is introducing a drone service to transport organs between the prestigious institution and AIIMS-Bilaspur in Himachal Pradesh to cut transportation time for the delivery of organs for critically ill patients from four hours by ambulance to just one hour through drones.
A drone weighing 18 kg with a payload capacity of 5 kg can travel 100 km in an hour at an altitude of 4,000 feet. This altitude minimises collision risks with birds. The drones will be operated through remote and will be equipped with GPS technology to ensure safe and reliable transport.
Addressing region’s geographical challenges
Himachal Pradesh’s mountainous terrain often delays ambulance transport, jeopardising the availability of life-saving organs. This drone service provides a crucial alternative, ensuring faster organ transfers to hospitals like AIIMS-Bilaspur or PGIMER-Chandigarh. The efficiency of this service is expected to transform transplant surgeries in the region.
The initiative also envisions expanding the network to Delhi and other northern Indian cities, creating a seamless organ transportation system. This model could become a national benchmark, integrating drones into India’s healthcare logistics to save countless lives.
Proven results and next steps
Dr Madhukar Kumar Bhagat, Joint Secretary for e-Health at the Ministry of Health, highlighted that this technology has already been successfully tested at AIIMS-Rishikesh and AIIMS-Bilaspur. While PGIMER-Chandigarh is not located in a hilly area, the system’s utility during emergencies is undeniable.
A dedicated unit at PGI will oversee drone operations using GPS technology. According to Dr Biman Saikia, this will drastically cut down the current 40 to 50-minute organ transfer time from nearby hospitals like Fortis and Max to just a few minutes.
Partnership with TechEagle for drone services
The drone operations will be managed by TechEagle in collaboration with PGI’s Telemedicine Department. The service will commence after receiving necessary approvals from higher authorities.
Dr Saikia emphasised the importance of this collaboration, calling it a pivotal step toward overcoming regional healthcare challenges. “Advanced technology is key to bridging geographical barriers and saving lives,” he said, highlighting the impact of this initiative on the healthcare system.
