World's First Hospital Train, launched in 1991

 

The Lifeline Express, also known as Jeevan Rekha Express, is the world's first hospital train, launched on  Jul y 16, 1991, by the Impact India Foundation in partnership with Indian Railways. It provides free medical care to the poor in remote areas of India. The train is equipped with modern medical facilities and has travelled across 19 states, reaching 201 rural locations in 138 districts. 

Here's a more detailed look:

Launch:

The Lifeline Express was launched on July 16, 1991, from Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT). 

Purpose:

The train's primary goal is to provide free medical treatment to the impoverished in rural India. 

Medical Facilities:

It features seven coaches equipped with modern medical equipment, including two operation theatres, a sterilizing room, a patient ward, and a medical supplies room. 

Services:

The Lifeline Express offers a range of medical services, including eye treatment, dental care, plastic surgery, epilepsy treatment, and counselling. 

Impact:

It has served a vast number of patients, with over 12.32 lakh patients treated, including 1.46 lakh surgical cases. 

Partnership:

The project is a collaboration between the Impact India Foundation and Indian Railways, with support from the Ministry of Health. 

Unique Feature:

The train's ability to travel to remote areas and provide on-site medical care makes it a unique initiative in healthcare delivery.