Bengaluru Metro Becomes Lifeline: Heart Travels 40 Minutes to Save a Life at Aster RV Hospital

Bangalore: In an inspiring example of medical excellence and civic coordination, doctors at Aster RV Hospital, Bangalore, successfully carried out a heart transplant on a critically ill patient, giving him a renewed chance at life.

The life-saving surgery was made possible through extraordinary teamwork and a unique collaboration between hospitals and city authorities.

The donor heart was transported from Sparsh Hospital, Yeshwanthpur, to Aster RV Hospital, JP Nagar, using the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) network — a move that saved crucial time during peak traffic hours.

Covering the distance in just 40 minutes, the organ reached the hospital swiftly, ensuring that the transplant could be performed with minimal delay. This timely coordination between medical and civic teams played a vital role in maintaining the heart’s viability for surgery.

The procedure was led by Dr. Divakar Bhat, Lead Consultant – CTVS Surgery, and Dr. Nagamalesh U.M., Director – Heart Failure and Transplant, Aster Hospitals Bangalore, supported by a multidisciplinary team of cardiothoracic surgeons, anaesthetists, and nursing staff. The patient’s condition post-surgery has been reported as stable.

Aster RV Hospital’s transplant coordinator, Ms. Reena, ensured seamless coordination between hospitals and the city authorities, managing the transport process efficiently during rush-hour traffic.

The recipient, diagnosed with end-stage heart disease, had been awaiting a donor match. Once a compatible heart became available at Sparsh Hospital, the Aster RV transplant team immediately initiated emergency transfer protocols.

With the cooperation of BMRCL and Bengaluru City Traffic Police, the heart was swiftly moved through the Namma Metro network, bypassing road congestion and ensuring its safe arrival.

Dr. Divakar Bhat said, “Every minute matters in a transplant. Using the Metro network for organ transport shows what’s possible when the medical community and civic systems work together for a shared purpose.”

Dr. Nagamalesh added, “This surgery was not just about replacing an organ, but about restoring hope. The success reflects the commitment of everyone involved — from the donor’s family to the medical and civic teams.”

Aster RV Hospital expressed gratitude to Sparsh Hospital, BMRCL, and the Bengaluru City Traffic Police for their crucial support in making this coordinated medical effort possible.