Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Secretary of Health and Medical Education, presided over a crucial meeting today to assess and finalize healthcare arrangements for the upcoming Shri Amarnathji Yatra, 2024.
The meeting was focused on ensuring robust healthcare services in collaboration with the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board, Health Department, and security forces to ensure comprehensive support for pilgrims during the Yatra.
Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah directed officials to expedite all preparations well ahead of the Yatra’s commencement. He stressed the necessity of maintaining adequate supplies of both portable and fixed oxygen across all healthcare facilities along the Yatra route.
Moreover, he urged the Director Health Services, Kashmir, to accelerate the establishment of a 100-bedded hospital by ONGC and secure the necessary staffing for its operations. Emphasizing preparedness, he called for ensuring availability of essential medicines and medical equipment for pilgrims.
The Secretary highlighted the need for a seamless Yatra experience and instructed for prompt deployment of healthcare staff at all critical points along the route, including highways. He emphasized the implementation of an efficient emergency response system and deployment of ambulances throughout the Yatra, ensuring readiness of the 102 and 108 Ambulance services.
The Director Health Services, Kashmir, outlined the comprehensive healthcare plan, detailing the establishment of 55 medical centers including base hospitals, medical aid centers, emergency aid centers, oxygen booths, and on-route facilities. A contingency plan with 17 standby facilities was also shared to address emergencies.
Additionally, 1415 healthcare professionals will be deployed, including specialists, medical officers, and paramedics, with substantial support from the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India.
The Deputy Director Health Services, Jammu, provided specifics on medical arrangements from Lakhanpur to Banihal, including operational emergency rooms, health centers, and a fleet of ambulances. Medical teams will be stationed at Yatri Niwas in Jammu and Chanderkote, Ramban, offering round-the-clock medical care.
The meeting, attended by senior officials from the Health & Medical Education Department, Director Health Services Kashmir, and Deputy Director Health Services, Jammu, affirmed the commitment to ensuring a safe and well-supported Shri Amarnathji Yatra for all pilgrims.