Ghaziabad: The health department is deploying 100 doctors, around 200 paramedical staff, and 65 dedicated ambulances along the Kanwar yatra route. It has also set up 26 temporary health camps and directed all govt hospitals to keep emergency services operational round the clock during the pilgrimage.All 102, 108 and Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulances will remain on standby, while health facilities have been instructed to maintain adequate stocks of essential medicines, anti-snake venom and anti-rabies vaccines. The department also directed hospitals to ensure all medical equipment is functional and coordinate with the district administration and other agencies for swift emergency response.Surveillance for communicable diseases has been intensified, with officials directed to strengthen disease monitoring, public awareness campaigns and preventive measures during the festival period.“Hospital authorities have been instructed to continuously monitor structural, fire and electrical safety, besides ensuring uninterrupted electricity and drinking water supply. In view of the humid weather, medical facilities and camps will provide clean cold drinking water, functioning fans and coolers, shaded waiting areas, and hygienic food for patients and attendants,” said an official.Doctors and paramedical staff have also been directed not to take leave till Aug 15 unless approved in exceptional circumstances.The arrangements are aimed at providing kanwariyas prompt medical assistance and ensure govt hospitals remain prepared to handle any emergency during the pilgrimage, officials said.A senior health department official said that lakhs of kanwariyas are expected to travel through the city during the yatra, making robust medical preparedness critical.“Our teams are also keeping a close watch on communicable diseases and heat-related illnesses, while ensuring safe drinking water, sanitation and hygiene at all health facilities. The objective is to provide uninterrupted healthcare services and ensure that every pilgrim receives timely treatment in case of any medical emergency,” the official added.
