Unifeeder and PlanatEarth launch Hybrid Marine Ambulance and Dispensary for Island Communities in Kerala

ERNAKULUM : Unifeeder, a DP World company, in partnership with Kerala-based NGO PlanatEarth, has launched a hybrid Marine Ambulance and Dispensary for the island communities of Kadamakkudy Panchayath, located in the Vypin Constituency of Ernakulam District.

This community-driven initiative introduces a specially designed medical boat that will provide outpatient consultations, emergency care and essential medications. It will serve over 17,000 residents living across 14 remote islands with limited or no road access. Operating six days a week, the boat will navigate the region’s waterways to deliver vital medical services directly to these underserved island communities.

C.M. Muraleedharan, Regional Director, Unifeeder India said, “This Marine Ambulance and Dispensary is a reflection of our commitment to the welfare of the communities in which we operate. We’re proud to partner with PlanatEarth to ensure that the people of Kadamakkudy’s island communities can access timely and life-saving healthcare, right at their doorstep.”

Kisna Yadav, Chief Legal Officer, Unifeeder, commented, “At Unifeeder, we believe connectivity goes beyond cargo – it’s about connecting communities to opportunity and care. This initiative exemplifies that belief.”

The hybrid boat, powered by a 40HP electric/solar engine, is outfitted with a consultation room, a laboratory, a mobile pharmacy and essential medical infrastructure including a defibrillator, suction unit and oxygen supply. Medical services will be provided by a four-member team comprising a doctor, nurse, pharmacist and attender. The service will follow a weekly schedule for each island and operate via a dedicated helpline.

This community initiative of Unifeeder is aligned to the  Government’s National Rural Health Mission which aims to provide accessible, affordable, and quality health care to the rural population, especially for vulnerable groups.