Collector Reviews Sabarimala Season Medical Preparedness; ICU Beds, Ventilators, Advanced Life Support Systems and Emergency Medical Centres to Be Strengthened
Pathanamthitta: Pathanamthitta District Collector Nizamudeen A IAS reviewed the preparations required in the health sector for the upcoming 2026-27 Sabarimala Mandala-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season, with a focus on strengthening medical facilities and emergency response systems for pilgrims.
The review assessed the existing facilities and arrangements required at Nilakkal, Pampa, Sannidhanam and various Edathavalams (pilgrim transit centres). Hospital authorities were directed to ensure maximum possible availability of beds, ICU beds and ventilators during the pilgrimage season.
Superintendents of Pathanamthitta General Hospital, Ranni Taluk Hospital, Thiruvalla Taluk Hospital, Kozhencherry District Hospital, Adoor General Hospital and Konni Medical College were instructed to make the necessary arrangements to strengthen their medical capacity.
The meeting also discussed the possibility of arranging additional ALS (Advanced Life Support) ambulances from the private sector at Pampa to improve emergency medical response and patient transportation.
The District Programme Manager of Arogyakeralam was directed to complete the required repair and maintenance works at Sannidhanam Hospital before November 1.
It was also decided to continue the Zero Death Policy implemented during the previous pilgrimage season and strengthen the functioning of Emergency Medical Centres (EMCs). As part of the emergency preparedness measures, CPR kiosks will be introduced along the trekking routes leading to Sannidhanam.
The meeting was attended by District Medical Officer Dr. Manikandan J, District Programme Manager Dr. Jinu G. Thomas, RCH Officer Dr. Shyam Kumar K.K., EMC Nodal Officer Dr. Sajin, along with superintendents and programme officers from various hospitals in the district.