Doda, September 2, 2025 – In response to the devastating flash floods and heavy rainfall that have battered the Doda district and surrounding areas in recent weeks, the Health Department of Doda has announced a comprehensive initiative to organize free medical camps across all blocks from September 2 to 6, 2025. The move aims to provide immediate healthcare support to flood-affected populations, prevent outbreaks of water-borne diseases, and address the surge in health emergencies triggered by the monsoon fury.The announcement was made by Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Doda, Dr. Om Prakash, during a press briefing at the District Hospital Doda today. Highlighting the department’s proactive stance, Dr. Prakash stated, “The incessant rains since late August have led to widespread flooding in blocks such as Bhaderwah, Gandoh, and Doda, causing significant damage to infrastructure, crops, and livestock. Our teams have already conducted preliminary awareness drives and distributed essential supplies like ORS packets in severely hit areas. Now, with these medical camps, we are extending specialized services to ensure no one is left behind in accessing timely medical aid.”
The medical camps, to be held in collaboration with the Government Medical College (GMC) Doda and local Block Medical Officers (BMOs), will cover all 10 blocks of the district, including Doda, Bhaderwah, Gandoh, Assar, and others. Each camp will feature teams of doctors, nurses, paramedics, and specialists focusing on common post-flood ailments such as leptospirosis, diarrhea, skin infections, respiratory issues, and injuries from debris. Free consultations, diagnostic tests, medications, and vaccinations will be provided, with a special emphasis on vulnerable groups like children, pregnant women, and the elderly. The camps will operate from 9 AM to 4 PM daily at designated Primary Health Centers (PHCs), Community Health Centers (CHCs), and makeshift sites in the most affected villages.This initiative builds on the recent efforts by the Health Department, including an awareness and relief drive in flood-hit areas of Bhaderwah on August 31, supervised by BMO Bhaderwah Dr. Versha Sharma. During that visit, health workers educated residents on hygiene practices, the dangers of contaminated water, and early symptoms of flood-related diseases, while distributing hygiene kits and ORS. Deputy Commissioner (DC) Doda, Harvinder Singh, who reviewed the post-flood damages to crops and livestock earlier this week, has directed all departments to coordinate closely with the Health Department to facilitate these camps. “Public health is our top priority in this crisis. These camps will not only treat the immediate needs but also help in surveillance to curb potential epidemics,” the DC emphasized.The floods, exacerbated by heavy downpours in the Jammu region, have affected thousands in Doda, leading to loss of lives, displacement, and infrastructure damage. Similar to the April 2025 flash floods in neighboring Ramban that claimed three lives, the current situation has prompted urgent relief measures across Jammu and Kashmir.
Minister for Health and Medical Education, Sakina Itoo, reiterated the government’s commitment during a recent statement on the flood-like situation, prioritizing hospitals and community health responses. The meteorological department has forecasted continued showers, underscoring the need for sustained health interventions.Residents are urged to attend the camps for check-ups and to follow advisories on boiling water, maintaining sanitation, and avoiding wading through floodwaters. For schedules and locations in specific blocks, contact the District Health Helpline or visit the official Doda Health Department portal. The administration has also appealed for community participation to ensure maximum outreach.
