The government has publicized a guideline on utilizing taxis as ambulances.
Health Protection Agency (HPA) on Thursday said there is a need to address the challenges faced in providing essential services stemming from the imposition of a lockdown in the capital Male’ owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. In that respect, the agency has granted permission to operate taxi ambulances to transport patients to health service providers in case of emergencies.
The publicized guideline outlines the requirements for taxis to qualify to be utilized as ambulances and how the drivers must carry out their conduct.
As per the guideline, the driver’s compartment should be separated from the passengers’ seats. Furthermore, only patients who are in the conditions to be able to sit can be transported in a taxi ambulance, and a maximum of two passengers can travel at a time. The guideline requires the drivers to take safety precautionary measures, and it details how to disinfect the taxis.
The government has decided to relieve some of the lockdown restrictions that have been imposed in Male' area since April 14.
Healthcare workers embarking an ambulance
