MAY 27: In a high-level review meeting, Secretary of Health and Medical Education, Dr. Syed Abid Rashid Shah, assessed the preparedness of the department for the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY) 2025, scheduled to commence on July 3. The session emphasized proactive healthcare planning, with a clear focus on early deployment of medical teams, telemedicine capabilities, and fully equipped base hospitals at key locations.
Dr. Shah directed officials to ensure a robust and responsive healthcare framework across the Yatra routes, particularly at the Baltal and Chandanwari base camps, where a majority of pilgrims converge. The Health Secretary emphasized that medical arrangements must be fully operational ahead of the Yatra’s start to avoid last-minute contingencies.
As part of the strategic healthcare response, the Health and Medical Education (H&ME) Department is introducing telemedicine training for frontline staff, enabling better patient monitoring and expert consultations in remote and high-altitude conditions. Mobile health units and air evacuation protocols are also being streamlined to handle emergencies effectively.
Base hospitals at Baltal and Chandanwari are being stocked with essential medicines, critical care equipment, and life-saving drugs to meet the demands of high footfall and potential altitude-related complications. The deployment of additional doctors, paramedics, and rapid response teams is also in the pipeline.
Dr. Shah underscored the importance of coordination with the National Health Mission, Disaster Management authorities, and Shrine Board for seamless integration of services. He called for a layered healthcare support system that includes base hospitals, sub-centers, mobile units, and telehealth platforms to ensure timely and accessible care throughout the Yatra stretch.
Additionally, the Secretary instructed officials to enhance public awareness regarding basic health precautions, fitness for high-altitude travel, and first-aid measures, particularly for elderly and high-risk pilgrims. Health counters with multilingual assistance and digital screening tools will also be set up.
The review concluded with a renewed commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of pilgrims during the holy pilgrimage. The H&ME Department will continue regular assessments and field visits to ensure that all medical facilities are fully prepared before the Yatra begins.
With these comprehensive measures, the administration aims to ensure a safe, well-supported, and spiritually fulfilling SANJY 2025 experience for all devotees.
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