Medical teams airlifted to Harsil & Dharali
Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun/Uttarkashi, 7 Aug: Acting on the directive issued by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, the State Health Department has mobilised a comprehensive and vigilant response to the natural disaster in Dharali. A 16-member special medical team has been deployed in the Dharali-Harsil region, while more than 70 injured individuals have received treatment at Matli. Nine patients are currently admitted at the Uttarkashi District Hospital, and five critically injured persons have been referred to AIIMS Rishikesh and the Military Hospital for advanced care.
Health Secretary Dr R Rajesh Kumar has claimed that prompt and effective medical services are being extended to all those affected. In the wake of the disaster in the Dharali region of Uttarkashi district, the Health Department has assumed immediate charge and has demonstrated commendable urgency in delivering medical relief. Under the clear and priority-driven instructions of the CM, the Health Secretary is personally overseeing the entire operation, maintaining direct communication with departmental teams and closely monitoring developments on the ground.
A dedicated 9-member medical team has been airlifted to Harsil and Dharali via special helicopter services. This team is actively providing on-site medical assistance in coordination with the local administration. Simultaneously, a separate 12- member medical team, led by Additional Director of Medical Education and CMS Doon Hospital, Dr RS Bisht, has taken charge in Matli. This team comprises seven doctors and five paramedics. Bisht confirmed that over 70 injured individuals have been treated thus far, most of whom were airlifted to Matli. He further noted that no patient required referral today, indicating a stabilising situation.
The Health Secretary also confirmed that additional medical teams are on standby and ready to be dispatched to the affected areas as needed. These teams are being sent via air service to ensure timely intervention. The department is operating round-the-clock to guarantee that no individual is left without medical attention, reflecting its unwavering commitment to public welfare.
Currently, nine patients are receiving treatment at Uttarkashi District Hospital, with their condition reported as stable. Meanwhile, three critically injured individuals have been referred to AIIMS Rishikesh, and two to the Army Hospital, where they are under the care of specialist doctors.
In a notable initiative, psychiatric support is also being provided to help victims cope with trauma. Teams of psychiatrists have also been deployed at the disaster site to offer continuous mental health counselling and emotional support. This measure underscores the state government’s holistic approach to disaster response, prioritising both physical and mental well-being.
Dr Kumar reiterated that under the leadership of CM Dhami, the state government and the Health Department are working with sensitivity, urgency, and dedication. Every effort is being made to ensure that no citizen is deprived of medical care, and that every person in need receives timely and appropriate treatment.
