Uttarakhand boosts health services for Chardham Yatra with advanced medical measures

The Uttarakhand government has intensified its healthcare arrangements ahead of the Chardham Yatra.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and Health Minister Dhan Singh Rawat have instructed officials to ensure smooth medical services along the pilgrimage route, according to an official statement released on Tuesday.

Acting on their directives, Secretary of Medical Health and Medical Education R Rajesh Kumar convened a high-level meeting to evaluate preparations and finalize key measures.

During the meeting, officials reviewed various health-related concerns, stressing the importance of completing arrangements on time.

The Secretary directed an increase in Medical Response Points (MRPs) along the Yatra route, expansion of screening facilities, and swift completion of health registrations for devotees. Additionally, advisories and safety measures will be implemented throughout the route to safeguard pilgrims’ well-being.

"To accommodate the increasing number of pilgrims, we have set up 26 Medical Response Points and 50 screening points along the Yatra route. Given the expected surge in visitors, we are considering further expansion of these facilities," Kumar stated.

The health department has made it mandatory for all pilgrims to register on the "Health Dham Portal," with those above 50 required to upload their health profiles. A proposal has also been introduced to track high-risk pilgrims using RFID bands and the GIO Tracking System to ensure quick medical assistance when needed.

Furthermore, Srinagar Medical College has been instructed to complete all necessary medical preparations, with experts and officers deployed on a rotational basis. Master trainers from Doon and Srinagar Medical College will conduct high-altitude safety training, replacing previous arrangements with AIIMS.

To enhance communication, informational banners and advisory boards will be installed at key locations, including bus stops, hotels, and dhabas, displaying health centre locations and emergency contact numbers.

The government has also announced the deployment of "health friends" on a contractual basis to assist pilgrims throughout the Yatra. A dedicated control room will be established at the General Directorate to monitor real-time health services and coordinate with ground officials.

Additionally, the Director General of Health Services has been instructed to submit the Utilization Certificate (UC) for funds allocated by the Tourism Department for Kedarnath and Badrinath, along with a request for the release of the remaining funds. Medical equipment and furniture procurement for the newly constructed hospital in Kedarnath will also be expedited.

Stressing the need for timely action, R Rajesh Kumar urged officials to ensure all health and safety measures are in place well before the Yatra begins, leaving no room for lapses in medical preparedness.