Preparedness today, Safer tomorrow: Dr. BKS Sanjay
Preparedness today, Safer tomorrow: Dr. BKS Sanjay
Dehradun, Nov 12
A valuable book ‘Kedarnath: A Doctor’s Diary’, authored by orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Sudhir Shaili, was released at the Doon Library and Research Centre, Dehradun, here today. Speaking as Guest of Honour, Padma Shri awardee Prof. Dr. B. K. S. Sanjay, President, AIIMS Guwahati, said the Kedarnath disaster of June 2013 remains a major tragedy in Uttarakhand’s history. Its lessons must guide efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness, public safety and emergency healthcare through scientific planning, timely weather alerts, public awareness and healthcare services.
Dr. Sanjay called for regular, location-specific weather bulletins during the Char Dham Yatra, disseminated through television, radio and digital platforms in coordination with the India Meteorological Department. He advocated daily pilgrim limits based on the carrying capacity of routes, online registration, regulated movement and improved traffic management. Highlighting healthcare needs, he recommended medical centres along pilgrimage routes, equipped with trained doctors, nursing staff, oxygen, essential medicines, ambulances and emergency facilities. Healthcare professionals serving in remote areas must receive adequate institutional and logistical support.
Describing public awareness as the first line of defence, he urged pilgrims, residents, drivers and volunteers to learn basic first aid, recognise weather-related hazards and understand emergency safety measures. Timely information and appropriate decisions, he said, can save precious lives. He also highlighted his 7D Approach—Document, Display, Demonstrate, Disseminate, Dialogue, Decision and Delivery—emphasising that knowledge becomes meaningful when translated into informed decisions and effective action. Congratulating Dr. Shaili, he said the tragedy must remain a lasting lesson in environmental responsibility, scientific planning, preparedness and human compassion.
The programme was chaired by Dr. Sudha Rani Pandey, former Vice-Chancellor, Uttarakhand Sanskrit University. Dr. Geeta Khanna, senior paediatrician, was the Chief Guest. Other dignitaries included Dr. Sudhir Shaili; Prof. Dr. B. K. S. Sanjay, senior orthopaedic surgeon and litterateur; Mr. Anil Raturi, former Director General of Police and senior litterateur, Dr. Harish Kohli, senior orthopaedic surgeon, IMA State President Dr. D. D. Chaudhary, Dr. Alok Ahuja, Dr. Mayank Jain and Dr. Kala. Dr. Bharti Mishra conducted the programme. Members of the medical fraternity, guests and media representatives attended.
