The Hi-tech Blood Donation bus, operated under the MB Hospital's blood bank and stationed at RNT Medical College premises, have been declared non-functional due to maintenance issues. This bus played a crucial role in facilitating blood donation camps, but its prolonged standing due to breakdowns has led to concerns over blood shortages in the coming months.

The first bus, stationed at RNT Medical College for one and a half years, faced a maintenance cost estimate of Rs 5 lakh after its breakdown. Despite lengthy discussions with the relevant company, it was revealed that the model of the bus had surpassed its lifespan, rendering its parts unavailable. Even if repaired, the same situation would recur after a year, leading the administration to pay for the maintenance. A similar scenario exists at SMS Hospital in Jaipur, where two buses have also been declared non-functional.

While approval for maintenance was obtained from NHM, the company eventually backed out after providing an expense estimate, leaving the hospital administration in delusion.  Despite ongoing efforts to address maintenance issues, the primary concern remains the inability of the bus to continue their role in transporting blood donors, potentially leading to shortages at the blood bank.

Here are the main features of the bus

• The hi-tech blood mobile van is fully air-conditioned and has four blood donation booths.
• It can accommodate a medical team of about ten people required for blood donation services.
• The bus includes a refrigerator for storing juices, beverages, and medications.
• During a five-hour campaign, the bus can help 500 people donate blood.

Source: Rajasthan Patrika