Kolkata, the vibrant capital of West Bengal, is a bustling metropolis known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and warm-hearted people.

Emergencies can strike anytime, and it's crucial to be prepared. In moments of crisis, whether a sudden medical emergency emerges, or there’s an accident, knowing where to turn is crucial.

Like any other city, Kolkata is not immune to emergencies, and it's crucial for residents and visitors to know how to access help when needed.

Worried about how to tackle such adverse situations if you are in Kolkata? Don't worry!! Karetrip is here to empower you to navigate through any situation with confidence.

This comprehensive guide to emergency services in Kolkata is crafted to ensure that you are prepared, informed, and ready to act when the situation demands it.

Medical Emergency Services in Kolkata

Healthcare is often the first concern during an emergency, whether it’s a sudden illness, an accident, or a chronic condition that requires immediate attention. Kolkata’s medical infrastructure is robust, with a wide range of hospitals, clinics, and specialized services available 24/7.

1. Hospitals

Kolkata boasts an extensive network of both government and private hospitals that offers round the clock emergency services.Whether you're looking for cost-effective care or the latest in medical technology, the city has it all. Among the most prominent are:

Kolkata is home to several top-tier hospitals equipped with advanced emergency care units. Here are some of the most notable ones:

• Apollo Gleneagles Hospitals

Located in Salt Lake, Apollo Gleneagles Hospitals is one of Kolkata’s leading healthcare institutions. It offers a 24/7 emergency department with state-of-the-art equipment and a team of experienced doctors. The hospital is known for its prompt response time and comprehensive emergency care, including trauma, cardiac emergencies, and stroke management.

• Fortis Hospital, Anandapur

Fortis Hospital in Anandapur is another major hospital in Kolkata with excellent emergency services. The hospital’s emergency department is equipped to handle all types of medical emergencies, from severe injuries to critical illnesses. It also has a dedicated stroke unit, ensuring quick and effective treatment for stroke patients.

• AMRI Hospitals

With multiple branches across Kolkata, AMRI Hospitals provides extensive emergency care services. The hospital is known for its efficient handling of trauma cases and has a well-equipped ICU and emergency department to manage critical conditions.

• Medica Superspecialty Hospital

Located in Mukundapur, Medica Superspecialty Hospital is renowned for its emergency and critical care services. The hospital offers round-the-clock emergency services and has a team of highly trained medical professionals. It’s particularly known for its cardiac emergency services.

• Woodlands Multispeciality Hospital

One of the oldest private hospitals in Kolkata, Woodlands Multispeciality Hospital, offers comprehensive emergency services. The hospital’s emergency department is well-equipped to handle various emergencies, including trauma, cardiac, and pediatric emergencies.

• Calcutta Medical Research Institute (CMRI)

CMRI is a well-established hospital in Alipore, Kolkata, known for its emergency services. The hospital provides 24/7 emergency care and is equipped with the latest technology to manage critical cases.

2. Ambulance Services

Ambulances are often the first line of response in medical emergencies. Kolkata has a well-coordinated ambulance network that ensures timely care.

• Government Ambulance Services

The government provides ambulance services through the 102 helpline number, which is operational 24/7. These ambulances are typically equipped with basic life support (BLS) facilities and cater to a wide range of emergencies, including road accidents, childbirth, and other medical emergencies. The service is usually free or available at a nominal cost.

• Private Ambulance Services

Private ambulance services in Kolkata offer more specialized care. These ambulances are often equipped with advanced life support (ALS) systems and are staffed by trained paramedics. Some well-known private ambulance services include:

1. Desun Ambulance Service: Known for its quick response time and well-equipped ambulances.

2. AMRI Hospitals Ambulance Service: Offers advanced medical facilities and paramedic support during transit.

3. Fortis Hospital Ambulance Service: Provides ALS and BLS ambulances with well-trained staff.

• NGO and Charitable Ambulance Services

Several NGOs and charitable organizations in Kolkata provide ambulance services either free of cost or at a very low charge. Missionaries of Charity and St. John Ambulance are two notable organizations offering such services.

• App-Based Ambulance Services

In recent years, app-based ambulance services have become popular in Kolkata. These services allow users to book an ambulance through a mobile app, providing real-time tracking and estimated arrival times. AmbiPalm and Call Ambulance are two such apps offering this service.

List of Private Ambulance Service Providers in Kolkata

• KMC Ambulance Service

Address: Chittaranjan Ave, Calcutta University, Bowbazar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700073

Phone: 033 2219 7202

• Adya Maa Ambulance & Medical Service

Address: 108a, Dr G S Bose Road, Kata Pukur, Kasba, Kolkata, West Bengal 700039

Phone: 084209 46146

• Usha Ambulance Service

Address: 50E, Kankurgachi Road, Kolkata, West Bengal 700054

Phone: 098366 94762

• LRS Ambulance & Emergency Services

Address: 52 NORTH BASUDEVPUR MADHYA, Subhash Pally, Belghoria, Kolkata, West Bengal 700056

Phone: 089613 56935

• Maa Tara Iccu Ambulance Service

Address: R.R.PLOT Housing Society, Sector H, East Kolkata Twp, Kolkata, West Bengal 700107

Phone: 090646 63781

• New Nirmala Seva Kendra

Address: 241, DPS Rd, near bangur hospital, Saha Para, Tollygunge, Kolkata, West Bengal 700033

Phone: 090730 61571

• Banerjee Ambulance Service

Address: M, BF-7/29,30, Deshbandhu Nagar, Rajarhat, Kolkata, West Bengal 700059

Phone: 098363 03657

• KMC Ambulance Service

Address: Chittaranjan Ave, Calcutta University, Bowbazar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700073

Phone: 033 2219 7202

3. Specialised Emergency Services

In addition to general emergency care, Kolkata has several hospitals and clinics that specialize in particular types of emergencies. Knowing which facility to go to can save valuable time.

Cardiac Emergencies

Kolkata has several hospitals renowned for their cardiac care, making it one of the best cities in India for treating heart-related emergencies. Some of the top options include:

• Rabindranath Tagore International Institute of Cardiac Sciences (RTIICS): Specializes in cardiac emergencies with a dedicated heart attack response team.

• Fortis Hospital: Offers comprehensive cardiac emergency services, including 24/7 availability of interventional cardiologists.

• BM Birla Heart Research Centre: One of the premier cardiac care centers in the city, known for its emergency and critical care services.

Neurological Emergencies

For strokes, head injuries, and other neurological emergencies, the following hospitals are well-equipped:

• Institute of Neurosciences Kolkata (INK): Specializes in neurological emergencies with a dedicated stroke response unit.

• Belle Vue Clinic: Offers advanced neuro-emergency services, particularly for stroke and brain injury patients.

• AMRI Hospitals: Provides a wide range of emergency neurology services, including a 24/7 stroke unit.

Trauma and Accidents

For trauma and accident-related emergencies, Kolkata has several specialized centers:

• Calcutta National Medical College and Hospital: Known for its trauma care unit, offering emergency surgery and critical care.

• S.S.K.M. Hospital: Features a comprehensive trauma center with advanced facilities for accident victims.

• Ruby General Hospital: Offers a dedicated trauma and emergency unit with rapid response teams.

Burn Units With burn injuries being one of the more common types of emergencies, the city has dedicated burn units at hospitals like the Institute of Post-Graduate Medical Education and Research (IPGMER), SSKM and Calcutta Medical College to handle severe cases.

Poison Control

The Bengal Poison Control Centre at Calcutta Medical College provides immediate assistance and advice in cases of poisoning,which can often be life-threatening.

Child Emergency Services

Pediatric emergencies require special attention, and hospitals like Institute of Child Health and Bhagirathi Neotia Woman and Child Care Centre are equipped to handle these delicate cases.

4. Blood Bank

In emergencies requiring blood transfusions, having access to a reliable blood bank is vital. Kolkata has several well-regarded blood banks, including:

• Red Cross Blood Bank: Operated by the Indian Red Cross Society, this blood bank is known for its stringent quality control and availability of rare blood types.

• Central Blood Bank: A government-run facility, Central Blood Bank provides blood supplies to many hospitals in Kolkata.

• Apollo Gleneagles Blood Bank: Part of the Apollo hospital network, this blood bank is well-stocked and operates 24/7.

Here is a list of blood banks in kolkata with their contact number :

5. Emergency Pharmacies

In a medical emergency, having access to medications can be crucial. Kolkata has a network of 24-hour pharmacies that can be lifesaving in critical situations.

24-Hour Pharmacies

Many hospitals have in-house pharmacies that operate 24/7, ensuring that essential medications are always available. Additionally, several independent pharmacies across the city offer round-the-clock services. Some of the most reliable include:

• Apollo Pharmacy (Multiple Locations): Offers a wide range of prescription and over-the-counter medications.

• Metro Chemist: Located near major hospitals, Metro Chemist is known for its extensive stock of medicines.

• Belle Vue Pharmacy: Part of the Belle Vue Clinic, this pharmacy is open 24/7 and offers a broad selection of medications.

6. Mental Health Emergency Services

Mental health is an often-overlooked aspect of emergency care, yet it’s equally important. Kolkata has several resources available for mental health emergencies:

• Psychiatric Emergency Services

Many hospitals in Kolkata, such as IPGMER and SSKM Hospital and NRS Medical College, have dedicated psychiatric emergency services. These services are crucial for individuals experiencing severe mental health crises, such as suicidal ideation or psychotic episodes.

• Mental Health Helplines

Several helplines are available 24/7 to provide immediate support during a mental health crisis. Some of these include:

1. Kolkata Sukoon: +91-98300-03489
2. Roshni Helpline: +91-22-2772-6771
3. Snehi Helpline: +91-44-2464-0050

• NGO Support

Several NGOs in Kolkata offer mental health support, including crisis intervention. Anjali Mental Health Rights Organization and Iswar Sankalpa are two notable organizations providing mental health services in the city.