Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo today chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess and strengthen healthcare arrangements being put in place for the forthcoming holy month of Muharram-ul-Haram.
During the meeting, the Minister took a detailed appraisal of the preparedness of the Health Department to ensure seamless medical services for devotees participating in Muharram processions and gatherings.
The meeting was attended by MLA Uri, Dr. Sajjad Shafi; MLA Khansahib, Saifuddin Bhat; MLA Beerwah Dr. Shafi Ahmad; MLA Zadibal, Tanvir Ali Sadiq; MLA Lal Chowk, Sheikh Ahsan Pardesi; MD NHM, MD JKMSCL, Director SKIMS, Principals of all GMCs, Director Health Kashmir, Director ISM, CMOs and other senior officers of health department.
Addressing the participants in the meeting, the Minister emphasized on the need for a coordinated and proactive approach to provide prompt healthcare facilities at all designated congregation points and procession routes. She directed the administrators of SKIMS, JVC Hospital, SMHS and other city hospitals to establish medical camps for the facilitation of mourners during this holy month.
The Minister instructed officers to establish round-the-clock medical camps at identified venues and ensure availability of specialist doctors, paramedical staff and life-saving drugs. She also called for strengthening emergency preparedness in hospitals to cater to any unforeseen situation.
The Minister asked them to keep Ambulances on alert so that the patients can be shifted to health facilities without losing time. She also directed them to make people aware beforehand about the availability of ambulances at designated spots.
Sakeena Itoo directed the concerned officers to ensure deployment of adequate medical teams, emergency response units and essential medicines at key locations. She stressed that all health institutions, particularly those located along major procession routes, should remain fully equipped and prepared to handle any medical exigency during the observance period.
Highlighting the importance of public convenience and safety, Sakeena Itoo directed the officers to maintain close coordination with district administrations and other line departments for effective implementation of healthcare arrangements. She also underscored the need for uninterrupted functioning of ambulance services and emergency healthcare facilities throughout the holy month.
The Minister further stressed on ensuring adequate stock of essential medicines, blood supplies and emergency medical equipment in all major healthcare institutions. She asked officials to conduct regular monitoring of arrangements and address any gaps well in advance.
Reaffirming the Government’s commitment towards facilitating smooth and peaceful observance of Muharram-ul-Haram, Sakeena Itoo stated that every possible effort would be made to provide quality healthcare services and ensure the well-being of devotees. During the meeting, the MLAs also spoke on various issues and sought seamless arrangements for the facilitation of devotees.