Rudraprayag: Health services along the Kedarnath Yatra route have been operating at full capacity, with authorities ensuring prompt and effective medical care for thousands of pilgrims undertaking the high-altitude pilgrimage.

According to official data, a total of 6,733 pilgrims have received OPD and emergency medical services within the first three days of the yatra. On April 24 alone, 4,993 devotees were treated across various medical help units have been established along the route and at the shrine. Additionally, 2,869 pilgrims have undergone health screening, including 1,311 screenings conducted in a single day.

The district administration has deployed a comprehensive healthcare network comprising medical relief posts (MRPs), base camp hospitals, oxygen facilities, trained doctors, nursing staff, and 24×7 ambulance and helicopter rescue services. Officials said the system is designed to identify high-risk cases early and provide immediate intervention.

In terms of emergency response, four patients have been airlifted to higher medical centres, while 13 pilgrims were shifted via ambulances and seven others were transported using traditional “dandi-kandi” support systems to nearby hospitals. Authorities said these swift actions highlight the administration’s readiness in dealing with medical emergencies in challenging terrain.

Screening teams have identified 11 pilgrims as unfit for the journey, including two cases reported on April 24. Such individuals have been advised to avoid the yatra or proceed only under strict medical supervision.

Several serious cases were handled through timely intervention. On April 23, a 55-year-old pilgrim from Mehsana, Gujarat, suffering from breathing difficulty and low oxygen levels, was stabilised at the Kedarnath base camp and airlifted to Rudraprayag. Similarly, a 19-year-old from Nagpur experiencing respiratory distress was referred via helicopter for advanced treatment.

Two more critical patients were airlifted on April 24, underscoring continuous monitoring and rapid response.

Officials reiterated that medical teams remain on high alert round-the-clock. Pilgrims have been advised to undergo proper health check-ups before pilgrimage and follow safety guidelines.

With robust healthcare arrangements and efficient rescue systems in place, the administration is striving to ensure a safe and seamless Kedarnath pilgrimage experience for all devotees.

Disclaimer: This news is written on the basis of information received from different authentic sources.