Srinagar, July 2: For the first time in the history of the Shri Amarnath Yatra, high-altitude telemedicine services have been launched to provide real-time specialist medical care to pilgrims. These services are now fully functional at two key base hospitals Baltal and Panjtarni.
The groundbreaking initiative enables on-ground medical teams at high-altitude camps to consult expert doctors at tertiary hospitals through satellite-based systems. This allows for swift diagnosis, specialist consultations, and remote management of critical cases, improving healthcare delivery and minimizing the need for emergency evacuations.
Encouraged by the progress at Baltal and Panjtarni, DHSK is extending the telemedicine setup to additional important locations, including the Holy Cave, Lower Holy Cave, Sheshnag, and Chandanwari. Installation at these sites is underway and expected to greatly enhance medical response across the entire yatra route.
Each telemedicine unit is equipped with advanced tools for diagnostics, satellite communication, HD video conferencing, and real-time data exchange—connecting on-site doctors with remote specialists.
Speaking to Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Dr. Jehangir Bakshi, Director of Health Services Kashmir, said the telemedicine services ensure timely specialist care at remote camps, reducing the burden of unnecessary evacuations while strengthening in-place medical assistance.
He highlighted the broader significance of using space technology in public healthcare, especially in difficult and disaster-prone terrains. “This initiative not only improves the standard of medical care for Amarnath pilgrims but also demonstrates the potential of such technologies in remote areas,” he said.
Additionally, DHSK has deployed over 1,000 medical staff, including doctors and specialists, across all medical stations. Emergency Aid Centres (EACs), mobile units, and base hospitals have been established at crucial points, stocked with life-saving equipment.
Refresher training and awareness drives on high-altitude illnesses and emergency preparedness have also been conducted to ensure comprehensive safety measures during the pilgrimage.
This pioneering telemedicine rollout marks a major step in leveraging space technology for better healthcare in remote, high-altitude regions—especially during one of India’s most significant religious pilgrimages. (KNO)
