SHILLONG, JUN 12: Health Minister Wailadmiki Shylla on Friday said the government’s review of the 108-emergency ambulance service is nearing completion, but a final decision on staff regularisation is still pending.

Addressing reporters, Shylla said the study commissioned to examine the service model is in its last stage. “We are almost on the verge of completion. As I informed earlier, we had sent the matter for study on how we can safeguard the interests of the employees at the same time,” he said.

The Minister added that the government will meet 108 staff and officials after the study is complete to decide the way forward.

“Very soon we will sit with the department along with the 108 staff to take any decision,” he stated.

On the staff’s repeated memorandums seeking regularisation, Shylla said most of their concerns have been addressed.

“We have received memorandums from time to time from them. From the government’s side, almost 50-60 percent of their concerns have been taken care of, except for the regularisation part. That is the major part where the government has not been able to take a decision yet,” he said.

He explained that the delay stems from the fiscal implications of regularising the workforce. “That is why we are trying to find ways where it will not burden the exchequer, while also protecting the interests of the employees,” Shylla added.

The Minister acknowledged that uncertainty over the service’s future structure has slowed expansion plans.

“The service is continuing. But until we have a final decision, there is no certainty on continuation. That is why the government is also in a hesitation mode regarding expansion, until and unless we are able to finalise a decision,” he said.

However, he stressed that emergency services remain unaffected for now. “There is an impact, but not that much. As of now, they are working and giving service to the people,” Shylla said.