SRINAGAR: In response to the mysterious deaths of 17 people, including 13 children, in Budhal village of Kotranka subdivision, the government has deputed five paediatricians and five anaesthesiologists to the affected area within hours of a request made by GMC Principal Dr Amarjit Singh Bhatia and Deputy Commissioner (DC) Abhishek Sharma.
Official sources said that the hospital in Rajouri is equipped with advanced technology to handle emergencies. However, they acknowledged a critical shortage of staff during the initial days of the crisis. “The rapid deployment of additional specialists will bolster the hospital’s capacity to manage the ongoing health emergency,” they said.
The outbreak in Budhal village, which began in December, has left hundreds of villagers grappling with symptoms such as fever, vomiting, sweating, and fainting. Despite extensive testing, no bacterial or viral infection has been identified as the cause. Authorities have placed all departments on high alert, operating around the clock to contain the situation.
To further enhance emergency care, Budhal MLA Javed Iqbal appealed to the central government to provide air ambulances for critical patients. He has also urged for arrangements to be made at PGI Chandigarh and AIIMS Delhi for specialised treatment.
Approximately 300 villagers from Budhal have been relocated to quarantine centres in Rajouri, including Nursing College, GMC monitoring facilities, and local schools. These centres are under strict surveillance, with CCTV cameras installed and a control room set up in the DC office. The DC has been personally monitoring the situation, conducting regular visits and sending updates to higher authorities.
The quarantined individuals are receiving improved facilities, with officers specifically assigned to oversee food and other necessities. The administration has ensured that the villagers receive adequate care during their stay.
GMC Rajouri has reported significant improvement in the condition of 11 patients, including nine children, admitted with severe symptoms. Among them, two girls in critical condition were placed in the ICU but are now recovering. Dr Bhatia emphasised that GMC has achieved a 100 per cent recovery rate for admitted cases so far, offering hope to the affected families.
He appealed to the public not to hesitate in seeking medical care and assured that patients would receive appropriate treatment and be sent home upon recovery.
The tragedy has cast a shadow over the Republic Day celebrations in Baddal. The village remains under lockdown, with roads sealed to prevent further spread of the unidentified illness. Graves of the deceased surround the homes of three affected families, deepening the sense of loss in the community.
In response to the emergency, the Jammu and Kashmir government has cancelled all leaves for doctors and paramedics at GMC Rajouri. Winter holidays have also been suspended to ensure that medical staff remain available. Additionally, 10 medical students have been deployed to assist in managing the crisis. (KNO)
