SVIMS opens first-aid centres for devotees trekking to Tirumala for Brahmotsavams

SVIMS Director G. Jagadish inaugurating the first-aid centre-cum- medical camp at Alipiri in Tirupati on Tuesday. Even as the Srivari Salakatla Brahmotsavams began in Tirumala on Tuesday, the TTD-run Sri Venkateswara Institute of Medical Sciences (SVIMS) opened first-aid centres at Alipiri and Srivarimettu, the originating point of the two trekking routes leading to the hill shrine.SVIMS Director and Vice-Chancellor Gudaru Jagadish inaugurated the first-aid centre-cum-medical camp at Alipiri, which would run concurrent with the nine-day Brahmotsavams, catering to the emergency needs of those who take the flight of steps to reach the hill temple.He inspected the medicines, diagnostic equipment and facilities available at the centre, and gave instructions to the staff on identifying basic complaints. Generally, the trekking devotees complain of pain or uneasiness in the chest, breathlessness, ache in the knee joints, low back or ankles.The first-aid centre would provide basic intervention for exhaustion, headache, joint pains, high blood pressure and refer serious cases to bigger hospitals, Dr. Jagadish, said, while directing the medical, paramedical and nursing staff to be available at the disposal of the visiting pilgrims and to act swiftly in case of emergency. About 198 persons walked into the two first-aid centres on the inaugural day and received treatment. Published - September 15, 2026 08:08 pm IST