Maharashtra Faces Severe Blood Shortage as Demand Outpaces Collection

Daily blood collection in Maharashtra lags behind demand by 1,300 to 2,200 units, creating unprecedented shortages and putting hospitals and blood banks under severe pressure

Maharashtra|February 23, 2026: Maharashtra is witnessing an acute shortage of blood, with daily collection falling short of the actual requirement by 1,300 to 2,200 units. The growing gap is straining blood banks across the state. Several factors are driving the increased demand, including over 75,000 patients undergoing hemodialysis, more than 12,000 thalassemia patients, and thousands of cancer and other critical patients who require regular and timely blood transfusions. Hospitals must maintain reserved stocks of specific blood groups to meet emergency needs, which further stretches resources.

The rising incidence of accidents is another major factor. On average, the state records 99 serious accidents daily, resulting in over 43 fatalities, leading to sudden spikes in blood demand, especially along highways and urban areas. Additionally, both private and government hospitals perform thousands of surgeries each day, which require substantial blood supplies. Often, relatives and friends of patients donate blood, but this cannot be relied upon consistently. Shortages have even led to delayed surgeries in some cases, causing additional distress to patients and families.

Urban blood banks face the greatest strain due to high demand and comparatively low donations, whereas rural areas generally report higher collection rates. Multispecialty hospitals in cities contribute to this high demand, as they conduct numerous procedures daily requiring blood of different groups. Blood banks are struggling to bridge the collection-demand gap, highlighting the urgent need for concrete measures to improve collection, maintain sufficient stocks, and ensure timely availability for patients in critical need.

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