The Uttarakhand Health Department has stepped up medical screening of Char Dham Yatra pilgrims at the transit camp in Rishikesh as thousands of devotees continue their journey to the Himalayan shrines. Authorities have also issued detailed health advisories to ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage.
Transit Camp Officer on Special Duty (OSD) Prajapati Nautiyal said devotees are being encouraged to undergo mandatory health check-ups before starting the yatra and to remain cautious during the journey.
“To ensure a safe Char Dham Yatra for all devotees, the Health Department has issued an advisory. Pilgrims should undergo a proper health check-up before beginning the journey,” he said. He added that devotees facing any health issues during the yatra should immediately seek medical help. “If anyone experiences symptoms such as headache, chest pain, dizziness or vomiting, they should visit the nearest health centre without delay,” Nautiyal said.
Highlighting preventive steps, he urged pilgrims to stay hydrated and follow proper dietary habits during the pilgrimage. “Pilgrims should drink enough water and carry ORS solutions. They should avoid fast food and prefer light and liquid meals,” he added.
He also cautioned pilgrims about challenges at higher altitudes, saying changing weather and lower oxygen levels require strict adherence to medical advice.
"If you are at a higher altitude and experience symptoms, consult health teams and doctors stationed in lower areas before proceeding further. The government is fully committed to ensuring a safe and smooth journey," he said.
He also said elderly pilgrims are especially facing heat-related health problems in the early phase of the yatra. “We have observed increased cases of vomiting and diarrhoea, though patients are recovering quickly,” he said. He further stated that around 1,000 to 1,200 pilgrims have already undergone OPD screening.
During the interaction, he also confirmed that several pilgrims reported blood pressure-related issues, and all such cases are being screened and monitored before allowing them to proceed further.
Meanwhile, Medical Officer at the transit camp, Yashoda Pal, urged devotees to take precautions against heat exposure and altitude-related stress. “Devotees should avoid exposure to the daytime sun and heatwave. Drink plenty of water and consume fruits like watermelon with high water content,” she said.
She further advised pilgrims to take adequate rest and avoid physical overexertion during the journey. “People should avoid walking long distances at once and take regular rest,” she added.
Highlighting common health concerns, she said many pilgrims are reporting breathlessness at higher altitudes. “Many are experiencing shortness of breath at high altitudes. Patients with diabetes and high blood pressure are also reporting issues. Due to dietary changes, some are also complaining of acidity,” she said.
Health officials continue to remain deployed at key transit points along the Char Dham Yatra route to ensure continuous screening, monitoring and timely medical assistance for pilgrims.
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