Uttarakhand government enhances healthcare services for Chardham Yatra pilgrims

The Uttarakhand government, led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, is fully committed to enhancing healthcare services for pilgrims undertaking the Chardham Yatra 2025, according to an official statement.

Under the guidance of Chief Minister Dhami and Health Minister Dhan Singh Rawat, the Health Department has implemented several key initiatives to ensure a smooth, safe, and health-conscious pilgrimage experience.

To safeguard devotees' well-being during the Yatra, the government has significantly expanded healthcare facilities along the pilgrimage routes. Health Secretary Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar stated that this year, two new hospitals are being established at Kedarnath and Badrinath.

The Kedarnath hospital will have 17 beds, while the Badrinath hospital will accommodate 45 beds, ensuring top-tier medical services for pilgrims. Additionally, 25 specialist doctors will be stationed along the Yatra route to provide immediate medical care.

This year’s preparations include the establishment of 20 Medical Relief Posts (MRPs) and 31 health check-up centres along the route to address high-altitude-related health concerns. Strengthening medical infrastructure further, 37 permanent health centres in key transit districts—Dehradun, Haridwar, Pauri, and Tehri—are being reinforced, with additional screening units planned.

The Health Department has also ramped up emergency response measures by deploying 154 ambulances on the route, including 17 Advanced Life Support Ambulances. In addition, helicopter ambulances operated by AIIMS Rishikesh and boat ambulances at Tehri Lake will be available to ensure swift medical assistance during emergencies.

Reflecting on last year's Chardham Yatra, the statement highlighted that over 34,000 medical emergencies were reported, with 1,011 patients transported via ambulance and 90 patients airlifted by helicopter. To further improve response times, Health Secretary Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar emphasized the increase in the number of Swasthya Mitras (First Medical Responders), ensuring immediate medical assistance for pilgrims throughout the Yatra.

Technological advancements are also playing a key role in strengthening health services. This year, the e-Health Dham portal will be upgraded with a "Get Help" button, enabling pilgrims to request emergency assistance instantly. Additionally, a Point of Care Testing Device will be used to assess 28 critical health parameters of devotees on the spot.

Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar noted that while lakhs of pilgrims successfully completed the Chardham Yatra last year, some faced health challenges due to high-altitude conditions. To further mitigate such risks, the government has introduced extensive improvements in medical services. Funding from the Central Government has been approved to incentivize healthcare workers, along with a budget allocation for a new 50-bed hospital in Guptkashi.

To enhance safety, mandatory health declarations for pilgrims will be encouraged, allowing authorities to identify high-risk individuals before the journey. Emergency call centres will also be upgraded, and awareness training will be provided to those involved in pilgrimage services, including hotel staff, dharamshala workers, and mule operators.

The Uttarakhand government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, is striving to make Chardham Yatra 2025 not only a deeply spiritual experience but also a safe and health-conscious journey for all devotees.