ICMR to procure 2 more mobile BSL-3 labs to enable rapid diagnosis during virus outbreaks
Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) stated that it is in the process of procuring two more Mobile Biosafety level 3 (MBSL-3) laboratories to enable rapid diagnosis during the outbreaks of known and unknown high-risk pathogens in the country. Known as RAMBAAN, the first-of-its-kind rapid-action mobile BSL-3 laboratory was initiated to tackle the repeated outbreaks of highly infectious pathogens like Nipah, Zika, Avian influenza, and Covid-19. Detecting these viruses at a very early stage during outbreaks is critical to enable quick containment and prevent spread.
Inaugurated in February 2022 in Maharashtra’s Nashik at a cost of Rs 25 crore, the laboratory on wheels was first deployed and operationalised in response to the Nipah virus (NiV) outbreak in Kozhikode, Kerala, in September 2023 and again in Malappuram District of Kerala in July 2024.
Its “success in Kerala demonstrates the strategic advantage of such rapidly deployable and sophisticated infrastructure in tackling epidemiological challenges posed by high-risk pathogens” the ICMR said. Currently, two MBSL-3 laboratories are stationed at ICMR-NIV Pune and ICMR-RMRC Gorakhpur, and the ICMR noted it is “in the process of procuring two more MBSL-3”.
Developed in partnership with the industrial company Klenzaids Contamination Controls, Mumbai under the Pradhan Mantri-Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM) scheme, the MBSL-3 lab is built on a heavy-duty Bharat Benz vehicle chassis.
The innovative initiative of the ICMR will help enhance the onsite laboratory services during the outbreaks of known and unknown high-risk pathogens. “This innovative and fully indigenous mobile laboratory not only enhanced India’s outbreak response capabilities but also strengthened its public health delivery, especially in remote and inaccessible areas,” the ICMR said.
The lab on wheels is compliant with BS-VI norms, is designed to operate at extreme temperatures and altitudes, and bears a maximum load capacity of 17 tonnes (17,000 kgs).
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