PIONEER NEWS SERVICE | Dehradun
Following the execution of Operation Sindoor, the Health department has instructed government hospitals in Dehradun to enhance security measures in the event of emergencies or war. This direction was issued on the instructions of the district magistrate of Dehradun.The authorities painted red-crosses on the terrace of the district hospital building as part of the measures being taken. This action follows the recent Pahalgam terrorist attack in which 26 civilians were murdered by terrorists.
The additional chief medical officer of Dehradun and district surveillance officer, Dr CS Rawat said that a mock drill meeting was chaired recently by the district magistrate. In addition to the instructions for the mock drill, the district magistrate emphasised the importance of adhering to war ethics in the hospital setting.
Consequently, the Health department has issued preliminary guidelines to the district and sub-district hospitals in Dehradun to ensure arrangements are made within the hospital facilities in cases of emergency and war situations. The instructions include the installation of a red-cross sign on the roof of the hospital to signify that the area is designated for hospital use. Additionally, facilities are to be prepared in advance, which includes ensuring that vehicles are fueled and ready. He said that these instructions will soon be communicated to other hospitals and medical colleges.
In response to these instructions, the Deen Dayal Upadhyay district hospital is fully prepared. The medical superintendent of the hospital Dr VS Chauhan stated that following the Health department’s guidance, the process of adding the red-cross sign on the roofs of two buildings at the hospital has been completed. Further, they have instructed the officials concerned to store an additional 400 litres of fuel and to ensure that the hospital’s generator, ambulances and other vehicles are adequately fueled.
He said that the doctors at the hospital have also been asked to remain on alert 24 hours a day. This directive is for the safety and security of hospitals and patients in the event of war or emergencies, he said.
