Pioneer News Service
Deoghar
As thousands of devotees embark on the demanding Shravani Mela pilgrimage, Eastern Railway’s medical teams at Jasidih and Deoghar stations are providing continuous 24×7 care to pilgrims facing exhaustion, dehydration and injuries.
Under the leadership of Gitika Pandey, General Manager, Eastern Railway, and the guidance of Sangrah Maurya, Divisional Railway Manager, Asansol Division, railway medical teams remain on high alert to address health issues arising from prolonged walking and physical fatigue.
At the Deoghar First Aid Booth, medical staff treated devotees suffering from severe foot injuries, including extensive ruptured friction blisters on the forefoot and toes caused by barefoot walking. The team cleaned and irrigated the wounds, applied sterile non-adherent dressings, administered analgesics, assessed the need for tetanus prophylaxis and gave clear recovery guidance.
At Jasidih, railway staff promptly arranged wheelchair assistance for a disoriented pilgrim suffering from heat exhaustion. Doctors at the Jasidih Health Unit stabilised him with Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS), close observation and supportive care, restoring his alertness before reuniting him with his family.
Dr Nataraj Basappa, Principal Chief Medical Director, Eastern Railway, is closely monitoring medical arrangements at both stations. Through repeated visits to medical and first-aid centres, he has reviewed facilities, interacted with pilgrims and patients, and assessed the preparedness of teams to deliver prompt treatment.
These efforts underscore Eastern Railway’s commitment to timely medical intervention and compassionate care during the Shravani Mela. From treating foot injuries to managing dehydration and exhaustion, the railway’s medical support helps prevent complications and ensures a safer pilgrimage for devotees.
Highlighting this commitment, Shibram Majhi, Chief Public Relations Officer, Eastern Railway, said: “Passenger and pilgrim safety remains our foremost priority. Eastern Railway’s responsibility goes far beyond transit—through dedicated medical teams, prompt wheelchair assistance and compassionate care, we strive to stand beside every devotee. We are reaching the spiritual hearts of thousands by providing care, compassion and a helping hand at every step.”
