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Comprehensive Health Measures for Rath Yatra

Bhubaneswar: As the Rath Yatra approaches, the Odisha government is implementing extensive health measures, including the deployment of 378 healthcare professionals and the provision of 265 hospital beds to ensure the safety of attendees during this significant religious event in Puri.

Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling informed the media that thorough preparations are in place to manage any medical emergencies that may arise during the festival, which attracts thousands of devotees annually.

In addition to the healthcare staff, the arrangements include 69 first-aid stations and 74 ambulances on standby for emergencies.

In light of a recent diarrhoea outbreak, the government is taking steps to guarantee access to safe drinking water and to prevent the sale of expired food in the area.

The 265 additional hospital beds comprise 15 ICU beds and 100 beds at the ANM Training Centre, while the Puri District Headquarters Hospital has set aside 68 beds, which include general, burn, and ICU facilities.

Mahaling expressed hope that the Rath Yatra would proceed smoothly with the blessings of Lord Jagannath.

The District Headquarters Hospital (DHH) has allocated 68 beds, including 50 general beds, 8 for burn treatment, and 10 ICU beds, according to an official health department statement.

Furthermore, 200 blood units have been reserved, and two minor operation theatres along with specialized dressing rooms have been established to manage any medical emergencies.

For the first time, a team of doctors from AIIMS Bhubaneswar will be present at medical centres in Puri to offer additional assistance.

Additionally, a specialized 10-bed air-conditioned heat stroke centre has been set up at Talabania to address health issues related to the weather.

The statement emphasized that rigorous health monitoring and disease prevention strategies are being implemented to uphold public health standards throughout the Rath Yatra.

To prevent any outbreaks of water or food-borne diseases, eight food safety officers have been appointed.

All 108 emergency ambulances will be on high alert and will operate along designated routes with the help of NGO volunteers.

To further prevent disease outbreaks, eight food safety officers and three mobile surveillance teams have been deployed.

So far, 494 kg of unhygienic food has been disposed of following 249 inspections of food establishments.

The administration has also collected 84 food samples, 22 water samples, and conducted 10 stool culture tests along with 82 water analyses.

An extensive information, education, and communication campaign will be launched to enhance public health awareness, covering topics such as food safety, safe drinking water practices, hand hygiene, ORS usage, health programs, COVID-19 prevention, and awareness of the Ayushman Bharat Program.

A dedicated control room for Rath Yatra will operate 24/7 throughout the festival to coordinate health-related activities and respond to emergencies.

For medical assistance or information, the control room can be contacted at mobile number +91 6370560247 and landline number 06752-222175.

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