Delhi government nod for free treatment scheme for accident victims, others

New Delhi, Dec 12 :  Victims of road accidents, fire and acid attacks will get medical treatment in all city hospitals at government expense, regarding which a scheme was approved by the Delhi Cabinet on Tuesday.

"The Cabinet today (Tuesday) approved the Accident Victims Scheme which will be implemented after approval from the Lt Governor (Anil Baijal)," Health Minister Satyendar Jain told the media here. 

"The government will pay the hospital expenses of any individual -- from Delhi or outside -- who is injured in an accident on any city road," he said. 

He said almost 8,000 accidents occur every year in the capital, with around 20,000 people getting injured. On an average, 1,600 of them die.

"Victims are usually taken to government hospitals to save on money, skipping nearby private hospitals. Unfortunately, many people die since they are unable to get medical assistance within the golden hour. This scheme will help save people's lives," Jain said.