In a significant step towards providing accessible and compassionate healthcare, the Navi Mumbai Ambulance Union was inaugurated on December 26 at the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) Hospital in Vashi.

The event was graced by the presence of youth leader Shardul Kaushik and Suhasini Naidu, a prominent BJP Mahila leader, who unveiled the union’s name boards and flagged off two ambulances to bolster emergency services in the city.

The union, spearheaded by President Mukund Waghmare, was established to challenge the dominance of existing ambulance service providers, often accused of monopolistic practices and charging exorbitant fees, especially from the underprivileged. Waghmare assured residents of Navi Mumbai that the union would provide services driven by empathy and community welfare.

“Our vision is to serve with responsibility, compassion, and fairness,” Waghmare said during the inauguration. “We are committed to offering free ambulance services to media professionals, police personnel, and their families, as well as to needy residents across the city. This is our way of giving back to society.”

The launch was attended by several distinguished guests, including Sheetal Mukund Waghmare; senior journalist Vishwarath Nayar; Advocate Shivaji Shingote of S.S. Law Firm; Mandar Gholap, NCP (SP) Navi Mumbai district secretary; Sudip Gholap, president of the News Media Journalist Association; Sachin Mhatre, a social worker and union member; and youth entrepreneur Akshay Vandekar.

Residents lauded the union's mission to bring affordable and reliable ambulance services to the city. Many praised its efforts to address the long-standing issues surrounding emergency medical transport, which has often been out of reach for economically disadvantaged communities.

“The monopoly of private ambulance operators has been a growing concern in Navi Mumbai. This initiative is a much-needed change that promises fairness and accessibility for all,” said Savita Kulkarni, a local resident who attended the event.

The union has already operationalised a dedicated helpline, ensuring immediate assistance for medical emergencies. Citizens can reach out for services by contacting 9987656740, 9619388958, or 9029104345.