On the Move Against Outbreaks: ICMR Adds More Mobile BSL-3 Labs

Image Source: Medical Expo

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is set to acquire two more mobile BSL-3 laboratories, a move aimed at boosting India’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to infectious disease outbreaks, especially in remote and hard-to-reach regions.

Key Highlights:

The new labs, known as RAMBAAN, will join two existing units currently stationed at ICMR’s National Institute of Virology in Pune and the Regional Medical Research Centre in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh.

RAMBAAN is a fully indigenous, rapid action mobile laboratory designed to handle high-risk pathogens. It can be deployed directly to outbreak sites, bringing advanced diagnostics and containment capabilities wherever they’re needed most.

These labs have already proven their worth, having been deployed during the Nipah virus outbreaks in Kerala in 2023 and 2024, where they played a crucial role in rapid testing and containment.

Built on a heavy-duty Bharat Benz chassis, each lab is equipped to operate in extreme environments and is classified as a Type-IV Rapid Response Mobile Laboratory by the WHO.

Features include a negative air pressure system, advanced HVAC with HEPA filtration, double-door autoclave, and biological liquid effluent decontamination for safe waste management.

The interior is divided into four specialized zones for safety and workflow, including change rooms, the main lab, and decontamination areas.

Power can be supplied by direct electricity, diesel generators, or backup systems, and the labs are equipped with real-time surveillance and communication tools.

ICMR’s expanded mobile lab fleet is expected to significantly improve India’s readiness for future outbreaks, ensuring faster diagnostics and better protection for public health.

Source: Business Standard