India creates world's first portable disaster hospital, Aaro

India has achieved a remarkable milestone in disaster relief efforts by introducing the world's first airlifted disaster hospital, neatly packed into 72 portable cubes. This groundbreaking initiative is a pivotal component of Prime Minister Modi's ambitious "Project BHISHM" (Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog Hita and Maitri), which was unveiled in February 2022, prompting the Ministry of Defence to establish a dedicated task force.

A Lifeline for Humanity: Aarogya Maitri Scheme

Earlier in the year, during the Global South Summit in January, Prime Minister Modi announced the "Aarogya Maitri" scheme, demonstrating India's commitment to supplying essential medical resources to developing nations grappling with natural disasters and humanitarian crises. The official launch of this extraordinary project took place at the MedTech Expo in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, in August, coinciding with the G20 Health Ministers meeting. Prior to the launch, the project was showcased to Myanmar officials in July.

Key Features of the Aarogya Maitri Cube

Comprehensive Equipment: The Aarogya Maitri Cube is comprised of 72 cubes, each packed with crucial resources. These include an operation theater, mini-ICU, ventilators, blood test equipment, X-ray machine, cooking station, food, water, shelter, power generator, and more.
Handling Severe Injuries: These cubes are equipped to manage a range of severe injuries, including 40 bullet injuries, 25 major burns, approximately 10 head injuries, long limb fractures, spinal injuries, chest injuries, and spinal fractures.
Master Cubes for Survival: Specially designed cages can accommodate 36 mini-cubes, ensuring survival essentials for 100 people over 48 hours. Two such master cubes can join forces, supporting 200 survivors. These cubes excel in handling critical injuries, including bullet wounds and major bleeding.
Portability: Inspired by the 'Rubik's Cube,' each cube weighs under 20kg for easy manual transport up to one kilometer.
Lightweight Design: The total weight of a master cube (36 cubes) is less than 750kg. Combining two master cubes transforms the setup into a mobile hospital, capable of life-saving surgeries.
User-Friendly Technology: The structure incorporates a tablet-based application for seamless operation of all 72 cubes. A portable generator, including a solar panel-based option, powers the equipment, all of which are rechargeable.