Health Department puts emergency medical system on high alert for New Year 2026

With large crowds expected for New Year celebrations, the Health Department has issued a circular directing hospitals across Karnataka to strengthen emergency care, ambulance services, and special treatment facilities on December 31 and January 1.

As Karnataka prepares to welcome New Year 2026, the Health Department has issued a statewide circular to ensure uninterrupted medical emergency services during the celebrations. The directive focuses on strengthening ambulance availability, emergency treatment facilities, and hospital preparedness across all districts, including Bengaluru.

The circular instructs district-level hospitals to remain fully operational and alert as large public gatherings are expected during year-end celebrations. To address any untoward incidents, sudden illness, or medical emergencies, special emergency treatment arrangements have been mandated for December 31 and January 1.

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Health officials have been ordered to deploy additional ambulances for two days across all districts to ensure quick response and transport of patients. Ambulance services will be positioned strategically to cater to crowded celebration zones and surrounding areas.

Hospitals located near major celebration venues have been directed to set up special rooms exclusively for emergency care. The circular also mandates the creation of separate treatment rooms for men and women to ensure better management and patient comfort during peak hours.

The Health Department has emphasised that immediate medical attention must be provided to anyone affected by accidents, health complications, or discomfort during celebrations. Medical staff have been instructed to stay on standby and ensure round-the-clock availability of essential services.

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Authorities said the move is aimed at safeguarding public health during the New Year countdown and ensuring that medical help is accessible without delay. The department has warned officials to strictly follow the instructions and maintain readiness throughout the two-day period.