Uttarkashi cloudburst: Uttarakhand Health Dept on high alert, hospital beds reserved

In the wake of the devastating cloudburst in Uttarkashi’s Dharali region, the Uttarakhand Health Department has gone into high alert mode to ensure swift medical response.

Acting on the directions of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, the department has strengthened health infrastructure to deal with any emergency arising from the disaster.

Health Secretary Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar confirmed that dedicated beds have been reserved at major hospitals in Dehradun and Rishikesh to treat victims brought in from the affected areas.

Emergency Beds Reserved Across Key Hospitals

As per the official statement, the following facilities have been made available:

- Doon Medical College Hospital, Dehradun: 150 general beds and 50 ICU beds
- Coronation District Hospital, Dehradun: 80 general beds and 20 ICU beds
- AIIMS Rishikesh: 50 general beds and 20 ICU beds

In addition to this, arrangements for doctors, nursing staff, paramedics, and medical supplies have been completed to ensure uninterrupted treatment.

Mental Health Support for Affected Victims

Acknowledging the psychological impact of natural disasters, the Health Department has also deployed three psychiatrists to the Dharali region.

“It is natural for those affected by the disaster to experience stress and depression. To address this, three psychiatrists have been sent to provide immediate counselling and psychological support,” said Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar. He added that the team will work in coordination with the local administration and offer support at relief camps.

Round-the-Clock Medical Readiness

Dr. Kumar further said that all Chief Medical Officers (CMOs) and disaster response teams across districts are on alert. The 108 ambulance service has also been placed in continuous active mode.

“This is a sensitive time. Any negligence will not be tolerated,” Dr. Kumar said. “The Chief Minister has clearly instructed that no injured or needy person should be left without medical care. The health department is fully prepared to respond to every situation.”

The steps come amid ongoing rescue and relief efforts in the region, which has witnessed extensive damage due to heavy rainfall and flash floods triggered by the cloudburst.