Pune: During the grand Ganesh immersion procession in Pune, the Pune Police’s ‘Vighnaharta Nyas’ provided timely medical assistance to 582 citizens who faced health issues due to the extreme crowd and heat.

The annual Ganesh immersion procession, a major event in the city, saw a surge of participants, and the medical service played a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of the attendees.

Within just four hours of the procession commencing on Tuesday, 122 citizens had already been treated for various health-related complaints.

Among the most common issues were dehydration-induced dizziness, respiratory problems caused by the crowded conditions, and asthma and coughing triggered by the colored smoke released by the drum and tasha groups.

Additionally, injuries caused by the metal parts of trolleys or tractors, head injuries from heavy drumming instruments, and fainting due to high blood pressure aggravated by excessive noise and crowds were reported.

The Vighnaharta Nyas, as part of its regular efforts, had set up emergency medical services along the procession route to ensure that citizens in need of medical attention could receive it promptly.

This year, the initiative was supported by 112 doctors, medical students, nurses, and volunteers. Well-equipped ambulances and emergency medical aid centers were strategically placed to address any emergencies.

Leading the medical team were the trustees of Vighnaharta Nyas, including Dr. Milind Bhoi, Dr. Nandkishor Borse, Dr. Shantanu Jagdale, Dr. Preeti Victor, Dr. Nitin Bora, and Sadashiv Kundan. Various organizations such as Tarachand Hospital, Tilak Ayurveda College, and My Mauli Old Age Home played a key role in supporting this effort.

The medical service had been operational for two days prior to the main immersion event, and it successfully catered to 582 citizens in total. While many were treated on-site for minor conditions, others required further medical attention and were admitted to Tarachand Hospital and Sassoon Hospital.