Hingoli Prepares Health Plan for 98 Flood-Prone Villages

The District Health Department in Hingoli has drawn up a comprehensive monsoon action plan to tackle the increased risk of infectious diseases, snakebites, and accidents in 98 flood-prone villages.

With the onset of the monsoon, these villages, located along riverbanks, face challenges in accessing healthcare due to disrupted road connectivity.

Of the 98 villages, 26 are situated directly on riverbanks and are considered highly sensitive, while the remaining 72 fall within flood-prone areas.

During the monsoon, several villages get cut off due to overflowing rivers and streams, making it difficult for health officials and ambulances to reach patients.

The Health Department has identified an increased risk of diarrhoea, gastroenteritis, fever, and other water-borne diseases during the monsoon due to contaminated drinking water.

Cases of snakebites, obstetric emergencies, and road accidents also rise during this period.

To address these challenges, special guidelines have been issued to district hospitals, sub-district hospitals, rural hospitals, primary health centres, and sub-centres.

Adequate stocks of essential medicines have been made available at all health facilities, and a buffer stock of medicines has been supplied to flood-prone villages.

ASHA workers, health volunteers, and local healthcare staff have been directed to remain on high alert and respond immediately in the event of any medical emergency.

District Health Officer Dr Kailas Shelke said special surveillance is being maintained in flood-prone villages across Hingoli, Basmat, Kalamnuri, Sengaon, and Aundha Nagnath tehsils.

Villages located along the Penganga, Purna, and Kayadhu rivers are considered the most vulnerable, with road connectivity likely to be disrupted during floods.

The department has completed all necessary preparations, anticipating that around 66 villages could be temporarily cut off during heavy rainfall.

Dr Shelke appealed to residents to drink clean water, maintain proper hygiene during the monsoon, and immediately contact the nearest health centre in case of illness or snakebite.

The monsoon action plan is a crucial step in ensuring the health and well-being of residents in flood-prone villages.

By providing priority medical attention and maintaining special surveillance, the District Health Department aims to mitigate the risks associated with the monsoon season.

This proactive approach will help save lives and reduce the burden on the healthcare system during this critical period.

The success of the monsoon action plan will depend on the effective implementation of the guidelines and the cooperation of residents in taking necessary precautions to stay safe and healthy during the monsoon season.

In conclusion, the District Health Department's comprehensive monsoon action plan is a vital initiative that will help protect the health and well-being of residents in Hingoli's flood-prone villages.