Officials told to prepare extensive healthcare plan for Godavari Pushkarams 2027

Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav chairing a review meeting with officials regarding medical arrangements for the Godavari Pushkarams 2027, in Mangalagiri on Monday. | Photo Credit: The Hindu Minister of Health, Medical, and Family Welfare Satya Kumar Yadav on Monday (August 24, 2026) directed officials to prepare an extensive healthcare plan for the Godavari Pushkarams 2027, as more than 8 to 10 crore devotees are expected to attend the event scheduled to be held from June 26 to July 7.In a review meeting held at APIIC Towers in Mangalagiri, the Minister examined the arrangements proposed for the event in detail. Officials estimated that nearly ₹93 crore would initially be required for around 490 civil works. However, the Minister asked them to reduce expenditure and ensure that only necessary infrastructure is in place for the event.A total of 525 bathing ghats will be developed across the districts of East Godavari, West Godavari, Dr B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema, Eluru, Kakinada, and Polavaram for the event. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema will have the highest number at 175, followed by East Godavari with 167.According to a press release from the department, 1,110 medical camps, 950 first-aid posts, 300 health posts, and 30 temporary field hospitals are proposed to cater to the medical needs of the devotees.Medical teams, oxygen, emergency equipment, stretchers and wheelchairs will be positioned according to crowd requirements. A multi-level referral system will transfer patients from ghats to PHCs/CHCs, area or district hospitals and, when necessary, government general hospitals or medical colleges.A special green corridor for ambulances will be created using physical barricades and coordinated by the police and revenue departments. Around 523 vehicles, including 108 ambulances, 104 mobile health units, specialised maternal and child health vehicles, feeder vehicles for elderly and disabled devotees, and 19 boat ambulances, will be deployed, officials informed the Minister.The department estimates a requirement of around 30,196 medical and support personnel, including doctors, nurses and paramedical staff. Additional specialists and other personnel will be engaged through deputation, contractual appointments, and other arrangements.Repairs and improvements at 23 hospitals in the districts where the event is going to be held are estimated at ₹23.09 crore, with about ₹8 crore proposed for administrative approval in the first phase. Works include drinking water, sanitation, oxygen pipelines, toilets, and additional beds and emergency facilities at Rajamahendravaram teaching hospital.All administrative approvals, tenders, construction, procurement, equipment installation, staff deployment and training are targeted for completion by April 30, 2027.The Minister also stressed strict monitoring of drinking-water quality, food safety, and communicable diseases. He directed officials to fill vacancies, including 78 Food Safety Officer posts, 97 laboratory technical posts and 913 ASHA worker positions. Blood-bank arrangements will also be strengthened through the State AIDS Control Society. Published - August 24, 2026 10:51 pm IST