Patna: Road accident victims in Bihar can now access emergency medical assistance by dialling 112, with the Bihar Police introducing an integrated response system designed to speed up treatment during the critical period immediately after an accident. According to police officials, eligible victims can also receive cashless treatment worth up to Rs 1.5 lakh under the Prime Minister’s Relief Scheme.
The initiative operates through the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) and has been integrated with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the National Health Authority (NHA) to reduce delays in ambulance services and hospital admissions.
How the 112 Emergency System Works
According to the Bihar Police, any road accident victim, family member or Good Samaritan can dial 112 to seek emergency assistance.
Once the call is received, the emergency response team coordinates the dispatch of an ambulance and facilitates the victim’s transfer to the nearest suitable hospital. Officials said the integrated system is intended to minimise delays that often occur while arranging transport or identifying a hospital.
Why the ‘Golden Hour’ Matters
According to Additional Director General (Traffic) Sudhanshu Kumar, the first hour after a road accident—commonly referred to as the ‘Golden Hour’—is often the most critical for saving lives.
Kumar said timely medical intervention during this period can significantly improve the chances of survival for seriously injured patients. The new response system aims to reduce the time taken to provide emergency care by streamlining communication between the police, ambulance services and hospitals.
Cashless Treatment of Up to Rs 1.5 Lakh
Under the scheme, eligible road accident victims can receive cashless treatment of up to Rs 1.5 lakh.
According to the Bihar Police, patients and their families are not required to make any upfront payment before treatment begins. The facility is available at government hospitals as well as Ayushman Bharat-empanelled private hospitals.
Officials said treatment records are uploaded through an online portal once the patient is admitted.
Scheme in Force Since February 2026
According to ADG (Traffic) Sudhanshu Kumar, the scheme has been operational since February 13, 2026.
However, he said public awareness remains limited. According to police data, 82 road accident victims in Bihar have benefited from the facility so far.
Officials have appealed to the public to use the emergency helpline instead of delaying medical care after an accident.
Who Can Benefit?
According to the Bihar Police, the scheme covers people injured in road accidents, including:
- Pedestrians
- Cyclists
- Motorcyclists
- Occupants of cars and other vehicles
Officials also reiterated that Good Samaritans who help transport injured persons to hospitals will be protected from unnecessary legal harassment or prolonged questioning, in accordance with existing guidelines.
What to Do After a Road Accident
The Bihar Police has advised members of the public to prioritise the injured person’s safety and immediately dial 112 if they witness a road accident.
According to officials, the emergency response team will coordinate ambulance services, identify the nearest appropriate hospital and facilitate medical assistance.
