Rudraprayag: Friday brought a big relief for the devotees who came to see Baba Kedar. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami formally inaugurated the newly constructed ‘Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) Hospital’ at Shri Kedarnath Dham. Built in the lap of the Himalayas and amid difficult geographical conditions, this hospital will not only prove to be life-saving for the devotees, but will also become a new center of health services for the local people.
Actually, the journey to Kedarnath is known for its difficult climb and changing oxygen conditions. In such a situation, this hospital, started in the spirit of “a new chapter of health at the peak of Devbhoomi”, is equipped with modern facilities. It will be operated by Swami Vivekananda Health Mission Society, which is already active in health services in the mountains.
During the inauguration, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami bowed at the feet of Baba Kedar and wished for the happiness and prosperity of the state. Talking to the media, he said that the resolution of the state government is to provide a safe and smooth travel experience to every devotee coming to Kedarnath. The Chief Minister stressed that the expansion of such modern medical facilities in the higher Himalayan regions will give a new strength to the health services.
CM said that this hospital will prove to be a boon not only for the travelers but also for the local residents living in difficult areas here. It is being told that deployment of doctors, oxygen facilities and emergency medical services are already being given priority on the yatra route so that in case of any untoward incident, quick treatment can be provided.
In his address, the Chief Minister also mentioned the achievements of the state government. “Our aim is to establish a medical college in every district,” he said. Discussing the improvement of health services, he gave the example of Ayushman Yojana, under which about 61 lakh cards have been issued so far in Uttarakhand. In fact, the government is trying to ensure that people living in inaccessible mountains do not have to run to the plains for treatment.
MLA Asha Nautiyal also expressed happiness on this occasion and said that this hospital is a unique example of service and dedication. He appreciated the efforts of BPCL and Swami Vivekananda Health Mission.
Many dignitaries including BPCL Chairman and Managing Director Sanjay Khanna were present during the inauguration program. The presence of Dr. Krishna Gopal, Co-Sarkaryavah of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, Suresh Soni and Patron of Vishwa Hindu Parishad Dinesh Chandra made the program dignified. District Magistrate Vishal Mishra and Superintendent of Police Niharika Tomar were also present on behalf of the local administration.
The speed at which the infrastructure facilities are being developed in Kedarnath Dham shows that the government wants to create a world-class infrastructure of public facilities along with tourism and faith here in the coming years. Now the devotees will not only get spiritual peace at Baba’s doorstep, but the responsibility of protecting their health will also be in the hands of modern machines and dedicated doctors.
