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JK govt steps up effort to trace medically 'unfit' pilgrims

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Press Trust of India Jammu

"We have asked doctors to be strict in health check up of pilgrims. Those found physically unfit should not be allowed to undertake the yatra to the 3888-mt high cave shrine," Director Health Service, Jammu, Dr Madhu Kullar told reporters at Bagwati Nagar base-camp here today.

"We are concerned about the wellbeing of pilgrims, therefore any one found unfit would not be permitted to go ahead with the arduous journey," he said.

As many as 83 pilgrims have died, mostly due to cardiac arrest since the commencement of the yatra on June 25, sparking off criticism by Hindu groups which have alleged lack of adequate medical facilities.

 

Jammu and Kashmir Health Minister Sham Lal Sharma visited camps at Nunwan, Sheshnag, Panjtarni, Holy cave and Baltal yesterday and reviewed the medical facilities.

  

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First Published: Jul 17 2012 | 8:36 PM IST

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