With the sacred Magh Mela set to commence on January 3, health authorities in Prayagraj have significantly accelerated their preparations to ensure robust medical care for the millions of expected devotees. The focus is on providing seamless and high-quality healthcare services throughout the event.
Top Health Official Leads Comprehensive Review
Dr. Ratan Pal Singh Suman, the Director General of Medical and Health Services, arrived in the city on Saturday alongside a team of senior officials. His primary mission was to conduct an exhaustive review of the medical infrastructure and emergency preparedness across key facilities. The inspection tour covered major government hospitals that will serve as critical care hubs during the massive congregation.
Hospital-Specific Preparations and Bed Reservations
Dr. Suman personally visited SRN Hospital, Beli Hospital, Colvin Hospital, and Dufferin Hospital, in addition to the medical units being established within the Mela grounds themselves. At each location, he received detailed briefings on the arrangements being put in place.
Officials outlined specific bed reservations for Mela attendees. Dr. S.K. Chaudhary, the Chief Medical Superintendent of Colvin Hospital, confirmed that 25 beds would be exclusively reserved for patients from the Mela. Similarly, the CMS of Beli Hospital stated that approximately 40 beds are being kept on standby for referrals from the Mela area.
Furthermore, Dr. V.K. Pandey, Principal of Motilal Nehru Medical College, announced that a dedicated ward at SRN Hospital will be earmarked specifically for cases related to the Magh Mela.
Ensuring Critical Facilities and Medicine Supply
The DG's review was meticulous, covering all essential medical services. He examined the readiness of intensive care units (ICUs), trauma centres, general wards, and diagnostic facilities such as X-ray units, CT scans, and MRI services. Attention was also given to non-medical amenities like night shelters for patients' attendants.
Dr. Suman visited the primary treatment centre set up at Sangam Nose and inspected storerooms to assess the stock levels of essential medicines and consumables. He issued clear directives to hospital authorities, emphasizing three key mandates:
- Ensure an adequate number of reserved beds are available at all times.
- Guarantee that all critical medical equipment is fully functional.
- Maintain sufficient stocks of medicines and medical consumables.
Dr. A.K. Tiwari, the Chief Medical Officer, briefed the DG on the construction progress of the temporary hospitals in the Mela area and the outlined plans for managing medical emergencies efficiently.
A Collaborative Effort for Devotee Safety
Dr. Suman stressed that providing prompt and quality medical care to every devotee is the top priority. He instructed all hospital administrations to remain on high alert and fully prepared to handle the anticipated surge in patient inflow and any emergencies during the Mela period.
The inspection was a coordinated effort involving several senior health officials, including Additional Director of Medical Health and Family Welfare, Dr. R.K. Sharma, along with Dr. Ravendra, Dr. Amrit Lal, Dr. Utsav, and Dr. Gaurav. Their collective presence underscores the administration's serious commitment to ensuring a safe and healthy Magh Mela for all participants.
