Deliberations held on Medical & Road Safety Measures to ensure safe Char Dham Yatra
Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 1 Apr: A one-day seminar on “Medical Issues and Road Safety Measures during the Char Dham Yatra” was organised on Wednesday at the Lok Bhawan, here, by HNB Medical University. Experts shared important insights on high-altitude sickness, preventive measures, and pre-travel preparation.
On the occasion, Health Minister Subodh Uniyal asserted that the state government is according top priority to ensuring safety and robust healthcare services for pilgrims undertaking the Char Dham Yatra.
Governor Lt Gen (Retd) Gurmit Singh and Uniyal jointly inaugurated the event and released the “Pilgrimage Education Handbook”.
Addressing the gathering, Uniyal said that Uttarakhand, revered as Devbhoomi, is one of the country’s major spiritual centres, attracting crores of devotees from across the nation every year. He noted that the Char Dham Yatra is not only a matter of deep faith but also a vital pillar of the state’s economy, generating self-employment opportunities for local residents. He observed that initiatives such as homestays, promotion of local products and allied services are playing a significant role in strengthening the rural economy.
The minister stated that ensuring convenience, safety and access to quality healthcare for pilgrims remains the foremost priority of the government. In this regard, extensive preparations have been undertaken to make the Yatra organised and secure. He informed the gathering that 243 medical officers, including 33 specialist doctors, have been deployed by the state government to ensure prompt and effective medical assistance in case of emergencies.
Governor Lt General Gurmit Singh (Retd) emphasised that ensuring the safety, health, and lives of lakhs of pilgrims is the highest priority. He described the seminar as a significant initiative to protect human life while respecting faith.
He stated, “Faith must go hand in hand with caution as the guiding principle for the Char Dham Yatra. Pilgrims should undergo medical check-ups before starting the journey, and elderly travellers should take medical advice before embarking.” The Governor also noted that Uttarakhand’s mountain roads, while scenic, are highly sensitive and accident-prone, and people must be made aware of the risks.
He highlighted the importance of the “Golden Hour” in road accidents, noting that timely medical care can save many lives. He also called for strengthening emergency medical systems and focusing on trauma care.
Recommendations were made by experts regarding Health Safety at High Altitudes. Renowned cardiologist Padma Shri awardee Prof (Dr) SC Manchanda advised a mandatory health check-up before travel; gradual ascent to higher altitudes; spending 1–2 days at moderate altitude for acclimatisation; practicing yoga and meditation for mental well-being.
He also stressed monitoring health regularly (pulse oxymeter, blood pressure), adhering to medicines, and contacting the nearest medical facility immediately if any warning signs appear.
Dr Pankaj from Government Medical College, Haldwani highlighted safe driving in mountainous terrain; awareness of geographical challenges; importance of immediate and correct first aid, which can prevent complications and save lives.
Dr Ashutosh Tiwari, HOD Orthopaedics at AIIMS Gorakhpur, spoke about effects of low oxygen levels and extreme cold on the brain and nervous system. He described the symptoms, risks, and preventive measures, as well as the importance of timely identification and proper medical management.
A “Pilgrimage Education Handbook” was released to provide pilgrims with detailed guidance on safety precautions during the Char Dham Yatra.
The seminar was attended by Health Minister Subodh Uniyal, Secretary to the Governor Ravinath Raman, Legal Advisor Kaushal Kishore Shukla, Additional Secretary Reena Joshi, Vice Chancellor Prof Bhanu Duggal, Senior Medical Officer Dr Mahavir Singh, Dr AK Singh, Dr Pranjali Thapa, Registrar Dr Ashish Uniyal and students from various colleges.
The seminar reinforced the message: Char Dham Yatra is a combination of faith and responsibility. Awareness, preparation, and caution are essential for a safe pilgrimage.
