Archive · 10 Aug 2026
Andhra launches safety-equipped 102 Thalli Bidda Express for mothers, newborns
In the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, the government is getting new vans to safely carry mothers and their newborn babies home from the hospital.
The vans are called 102 Thalli Bidda Express.
They have many safety features, including airbags, seat belts, child-lock doors and even fire extinguishers.
A special button inside the van can call for help, and the van can be tracked with GPS.
The government says this is the first program of its kind in the whole country.
The rides are free for women who have their babies in government hospitals, and two helpers can go along.
The new vans will be launched on August 11 in the town of Narasaraopet.
Special vans will also help pregnant women who are very sick or need blood transfusions.
Andhra Pradesh is introducing what it describes as the country's first 102 Thalli Bidda Express vehicles with advanced safety features for mothers and newborns.
Health Minister Satyakumar Yadav will launch the new services in Narasaraopet on August 11.
At least 500 vehicles are being procured, with 300 in the first phase and the remaining 200 to follow.
The vehicles feature six airbags, ABS, EBD, Electronic Stability Programme, speed alerts above 80 kmph and fire extinguishers, plus live GPS tracking and an emergency SOS button.
The free drop-back service is available to women who deliver in government hospitals and their newborns, with two attendants allowed to accompany them.
- Who
- Andhra Pradesh Health Minister Satyakumar Yadav and the state government
- What
- Launch of safety-equipped 102 Thalli Bidda Express vehicles for transporting mothers and newborns
- When
- August 11, announced on August 10
- Where
- Narasaraopet in Andhra Pradesh
- Why
- To ensure safer transportation of mothers and newborn babies
- Launch date
- August 11
- Launch venue
- Narasaraopet
- Vehicles procured
- At least 500
- First phase vehicles
- 300
- Remaining vehicles
- 200
- Speed alert threshold
- 80 kmph
- Attendants allowed
- Two per patient
- Service
- Free drop-back for women delivering in government hospitals