ICMR to expand mobile BSL-3 Lab fleet to strengthen outbreak response in remote areas

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has begun the procurement process for two additional Mobile BSL-3 (MBSL-3) laboratories in a strategic push to enhance outbreak response mechanisms and improve diagnostic outreach in hard-to-access regions.

Current Deployment of RAMBAAN Units

Currently, two Rapid Action Mobile BSL-3 laboratories, known as RAMBAAN, are in operation. These are stationed at the National Institute of Virology in Pune and the Regional Medical Research Centre (RMRC) in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh.

Indigenously Developed for Field Deployment

RAMBAAN is India’s first fully indigenous, field-deployable mobile BSL-3 laboratory. It has been purpose-built to cater to the diagnostic requirements arising during outbreaks involving high-risk pathogens, including those that are novel or not yet fully characterised.

Developed Under Health Infrastructure Mission

The initiative was spearheaded by ICMR in collaboration with Klenzaids Contamination Controls Private Limited, Mumbai. It is supported by the Pradhan Mantri-Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, as reported by PTI.

Proven Use During Nipah Outbreaks

The laboratory was first deployed operationally during the Nipah virus outbreak in Kozhikode, Kerala, in September 2023, and again in Malappuram district in July 2024. Its mobility and readiness proved vital in providing timely diagnostics and containment support.

Designed for Mobility and Harsh Conditions

Mounted on a Bharat Benz BS-VI compliant chassis, the laboratory is engineered to function under extreme environmental conditions and has a gross vehicle weight capacity of 17,000 kilograms. Classified as a Type-IV Rapid Response Mobile Laboratory (RRML) under the WHO-GOARN RRML network, it is tailored for high-impact field diagnostics.

Advanced Biosafety Features and Environmental Controls

The facility is designed to maintain negative pressure and is equipped with a high-efficiency HVAC system featuring HEPA filters. Additional biosafety measures include a double-door autoclave, biological liquid effluent decontamination (BLED) system, and an H₂O₂ fogger for waste management.

Four-Zone Layout for Operational Safety

Internally, the mobile lab is divided into four operational zones: zone-1 (driver and outer change room), zone-2 (shower and inner change room), zone-3 (main laboratory), and zone-4 (material staging and decontamination area).

High-Tech Systems to Support Laboratory Functioning

Each zone houses specialised systems including Class II A2 biological safety cabinets, a dynamic pass box, an intelligent programmable logic controller system, and a biometric-controlled entry-exit shower setup.

Reliable Power and Communication Support

Power can be drawn from a direct electric line or a diesel generator, with an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) and additional petrol generator backups in place. Internal communication is supported by walkie-talkies and real-time CCTV surveillance.

Expanded Fleet to Boost Emergency Readiness

The addition of two more MBSL-3 units is expected to significantly enhance India’s preparedness and decentralised diagnostic capabilities during public health emergencies.