Srinagar, July 02:The Health Department Kashmir has taken proactive measures to establish exclusive first aid facilities, catering to emergencies that may arise during the annual AmarnathYatra, which commenced on Saturday. Within the first two days, three yatris sustained injuries during the pilgrimage, promptly receiving medical attention and necessary treatment under the efficient supervision of Director Health Services Kashmir and CRPF.
In the first incident, a 43-year-old female yatri suffered a head injury with a lacerated wound after falling down at Sangam. The health team, led by two doctors, provided initial stabilization before airlifting her to SKIMS Soura for further treatment. Director Health Services Kashmir immediately alerted the SKIMS Soura team, ensuring seamless management and ongoing care for the patient.
Expressing appreciation, Director Health Services Kashmir commended the dedicated health team and extended gratitude to the army, local district administration, and other line departments for their outstanding assistance during the rescue operation.
In the second case, a young male patient experiencing chest pain at Pissu Top medical aid facility was transferred to Chandanwadi Base hospital, where he was diagnosed with an inferior wall myocardial infarction (MI). The patient received immediate thrombolysis according to CAD protocol, achieving stabilization before being referred to SKIMS Soura for primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Director Health Services Kashmir, Dr.Mushtaq Ahmad Rather, personally monitored the patient’s progress and commended the health team for saving a precious life.
Both rescue operations were conducted under the personal coordination of the director, following the directives of the esteemed CEO of Amarnath Shrine Board.
In the third incident, a pilgrim from Punjab slipped from a pony near Railpathri while en route to the Holy Cave. The Mountain Rescue Team (MRT) of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) promptly evacuated the pilgrim, who had sustained minor injuries. The injured yatri was transported to the Baltal base camp of CRPF. Along the pilgrimage route, three MRTs of the Rapid Action Force of CRPF are stationed to assist pilgrims in need.
Dr. Mir Mushtaq, spokesperson of the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir, emphasized the paramount importance of first aid in critical care treatment, particularly in cases of cardiac and respiratory ailments. He highlighted that even a simple injury can become complicated, underscoring the elaborate arrangements made by the health department at Chandanwadi and Baltal sides to handle emergencies.
Dr. Mir affirmed that all necessary facilities are in place, and in the event of critical patients, immediate shifting or airlifting arrangements are implemented for prompt treatment. Considering the challenges posed by high altitudes, such as reduced air pressure and lower oxygen levels, medical specialists including physicians, cardiologists, respiratory physicians, orthopedicians, and anesthetists have been deployed at the base hospitals. Additionally, six base hospitals have been established at both Chandanwadi and Baltal sides, while tertiary care facilities such as SKIMS Soura, SKIMS Bemina, and Government Medical Colleges are on standby to handle any referral cases during the Yatra.
The government and its departments continue to work tirelessly to provide comprehensive facilities and create conducive conditions, ensuring a smooth and comfortable AmarnathYatra experience for all pilgrims.
