Gorai Village's First 108 Ambulance Brings Relief, But Residents Regret Rejecting Bridge

Gorai Village, Maharashtra: Gorai village, with a population of 15,000, has received its first 108 ambulance service after years of waiting. Stationed 24x7 at the local health clinic, the service provides critical medical attention to residents, greatly reducing the long, arduous journey to the nearest hospital. However, the village is also facing a challenge, as they now regret opposing a bridge that would have reduced hospital access time.

Previously, residents faced a 13.5 km trip to the nearest hospital in Mira Road, taking up to an hour or more in emergencies. With the new ambulance stationed in Gorai, time-consuming trips are reduced, offering immediate relief to villagers. Yet, locals find themselves regretting their opposition to a bridge proposal that would have connected Gorai to Borivli by crossing a 500-meter creek. With the bridge in place, residents could have traveled only 4.9 km to a hospital in Borivli, significantly cutting travel time.

Rossi Dsouza, Sarpanch of Gorai Gaothan Panchayat (GPP), highlighted the positive impact of the 108 ambulance but noted the travel time would have been further reduced had the bridge existed. The decision to oppose the bridge was due to safety concerns regarding increased outside access and its potential environmental impact, including the destruction of valuable mangrove cover.

While residents are grateful for the emergency medical service, they can’t help but reflect on what might have been, with faster hospital access and an improved standard of living within reach.