DHSK–ISRO link enables remote treatment
Irfan Tramboo
Srinagar, July 2: To ensure healthcare services and specialist attention for pilgrims even at the remotest medical camps during the Amarnath Yatra, the Directorate of Health Services, Kashmir (DHSK) today operationalized ISRO-supported telemedicine facilities at the Baltal and Panjtarni Base Hospitals.
Officials said that, for the first time, the DHSK is also expanding telemedicine infrastructure to the remaining four base hospitals — Holy Cave, Lower Holy Cave, Sheshnag and Chandanwari — with work currently in progress.
The initiative is part of a strategic collaboration between ISRO and DHSK, under which state-of-the-art telemedicine systems utilize ISRO’s satellite communication technology to connect on-ground medical teams with specialist doctors at tertiary care centers.
The real-time connectivity enables prompt diagnosis, expert consultations, and guidance on the management of complex or critical cases — a crucial facility in the rugged and remote terrain of the Yatra route, officials said.
Dr. Jehangir Bakshi, Director of Health Services, Kashmir, stated that with the operationalization of telemedicine at Baltal and Panjtarni, it will now be ensured that pilgrims at even the most remote medical camps receive timely specialist attention.
“This technology is proving invaluable in reducing unnecessary evacuations and strengthening on-site care,” he said.
Each telemedicine unit, officials noted, is equipped with a satellite terminal, diagnostic tools, high-definition video conferencing systems, and medical data-sharing capabilities.
Officials emphasized that this development demonstrates the effective integration of space technology into public health, particularly in geographically challenging and disaster-prone areas.
“It not only enhances the quality and reach of healthcare services for pilgrims but also contributes to the efficient functioning of the health infrastructure during one of the largest annual religious gatherings in the country.”
Pertinently, the DHSK has undertaken a wide range of healthcare measures this year to ensure the safety and well-being of the Yatris.
These include the deployment of over 1,000 medical personnel — including specialists, doctors, and allied health workers — across all medical stations; the establishment of Emergency Aid Centres (EACs), Mobile Medical Units, and Base Hospitals at critical points; and the provisioning of life-saving equipment.
With last year’s Yatra witnessing a footfall of over 5 lakh pilgrims, this year, over 50 medical stations — including six base hospitals — have been set up, with staff deployed in three shifts.
For patient transport, 44 dedicated ambulances — including nine critical care ambulances — have been deployed. Additional institutional ambulances have also been integrated into the route ambulance plan.
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