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National Ambulance Service Launches 24-Hour "Operation Restore Fleet" to Revitalize Emergency Response
•2 min read•1 source
The National Ambulance Service (NAS) has officially commenced "Operation Restore Fleet," an intensive 24-hour repair initiative designed to return grounded emergency vehicles to Ghana's roads. This strategic move aims to bolster the country's emergency response capabilities, which have been strained by the aging condition of ambulances that have remained in continuous service for more than six years. By transitioning to a round-the-clock maintenance schedule, the service intends to drastically reduce the backlog of inoperable vehicles and ensure that critical healthcare transport is available to citizens in need. Under the leadership of NAS Chief Executive Officer Dr. George Kojo Owusu, the operation involves a dedicated team of engineers and technicians tasked with addressing major mechanical faults that have sidelined a significant portion of the fleet. Dr. Owusu highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting that the service will recruit additional skilled mechanics to expedite the restoration process. While the focus remains on salvaging as many units as possible, the NAS has also made the decision to decommission vehicles deemed beyond economic repair. Removing these unserviceable units will create much-needed space in maintenance facilities for the repair of viable ambulances. Beyond the immediate surge in repair activity, the National Ambulance Service is implementing systemic changes to prevent future fleet degradation. This includes the establishment of a sustainable procurement framework for high-quality spare parts and the decentralization of maintenance efforts to regional hubs. By improving regional maintenance capacity, the NAS hopes to identify and resolve minor mechanical issues before they escalate into major faults that ground vehicles. This proactive approach is expected to extend the lifespan of the current fleet while the government considers future procurement needs to support Ghana's expanding healthcare infrastructure.