With lakhs of devotees expected to gather in Puri for the grand Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath, the Odisha Health Department has rolled out extensive medical arrangements to ensure seamless healthcare and rapid emergency response during the festival.
The department has made complete preparations keeping in mind the massive public congregation and possible emergency situations. Eight temporary 10-bed hospitals have been set up on both sides of the iconic Badadanda (Grand Road), allowing quick treatment for patients right in the middle of the crowds.
At the District Headquarters Hospital (DHH) in Puri, a 10-bed Intensive Care Unit (ICU), a 10-bed Trauma Care Centre, a 10-bed Burn Ward, and one fully equipped operation theatre have been made operational. In addition, 150 extra beds have been arranged in the newly constructed hospital building to manage the expected patient load.
A strong team of medical professionals will be on duty throughout the festival: 230 doctors, 66 specialists (including 2 cardiologists, 2 neurologists, and 2 plastic surgeons), 200 nursing officers, and 229 paramedical staff.
To tackle heat-related illnesses, which are common during the summer festival, the department has deployed special facilities for heat stroke management — 10 beds at the District Hospital, 2 at Community Health Centres, and 1 at a Primary Health Centre.
Along Badadanda and nearby areas of Puri town, 30 First Aid Centres will be functional. Of these, 11 centres located on Badadanda will remain open round the clock. For swift emergency evacuation, 46 ambulances have been stationed at various points across Puri, including two Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulances at the Puri District Hospital.
Food safety has also been strengthened with additional Food Safety Officers deployed for quality checks. Thirty trained staff members equipped with oxygen canisters have been positioned at key locations for immediate assistance.
These comprehensive measures reflect the Odisha government’s strong commitment to protecting the health and well-being of millions of devotees participating in the sacred Rath Yatra.
