Blood donation drives, ambulances mobilised: All hands on deck at PGI
As tensions on the Indo-Pak border rise, the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) has mounted a swift and comprehensive emergency response.
Today, PGIMER dispatched five ambulances to AIIMS,Vijaypur in Jammu, equipped with first-aid kits and essential emergency medical supplies. The move, confirmed by Dr Vipin Koushal, Medical Superintendent and Head of Hospital Administration, is a part of a broader strategy to ensure immediate medical response in high-risk zones.
“We would be informed of further requirements,” said Koushal, adding, “We are already prepared for any case scenario. Standard operating procedure (SOP) are in place and will be activated without delay.”
A high-level meeting of PGIMER’s Disaster Management Committee was held at 11 am this morning to assess the situation and finalise operational plans. Six of the institute’s remaining 11 ambulances remain on standby for rapid deployment should the crisis escalate.
“Being the largest government-run medical facility in North India, we understand the gravity of the situation. Our preparedness is not optional—it is a necessity,” Koushal added.
Simultaneously, PGIMER has launched an urgent campaign to bolster the region’s emergency medical infrastructure through voluntary blood donation. The institute has initiated the establishment of a Dedicated Emergency Blood Reserve, aimed at ensuring uninterrupted access to life-saving blood in times of crisis.
Vivek Lal, Director of PGIMER, said, “Terrorists spill innocent blood to divide us. We will give our blood to save lives and show them that humanity triumphs over hate. That is the strongest message we can send right now.”
Calling preparedness the highest form of patriotism, Lal continued, “This blood donation drive is not just about saving lives; it is about asserting that India’s spirit cannot be shattered by acts of terror. Preparedness is not panic—it is protection. We must be a step ahead of any crisis in our readiness to meet it head-on.”
As part of the initiative, the Department of Transfusion Medicine, under Rati Ram Sharma, has extended the operating hours of PGIMER’s Blood Bank from 9 am to 8 pm daily. Emergency services remain operational round-the-clock to accommodate urgent donations. The institute is now actively calling for donors of all blood groups, particularly O group donors, whose blood is universally compatible and crucial during emergency transfusions.
Sharma called on citizens from all walks of life—students, professionals, workers, and volunteers—to respond to the national need. “Each donation is a symbol of hope and a rejection of fear. Every drop of blood given is a drop of defiance against hate. This is not just a call for blood—it is a call for unity,” he said.
In a parallel move, the State Health Society (National Health Mission), UT, issued an emergency order instructing all Medical Officer incharges and staff posted at AAMs and UAAMs to remain on 24/7 emergency duty. The directive, issued on May 7, cancels all leaves with immediate effect and mandates round-the-clock phone availability.
“Any failure to comply will invite strict disciplinary action,” the order warns.
PGIMER, meanwhile, also marked World Thalassaemia Day, in collaboration with the Thalassaemic Charitable Trust (TCT) with a Mega Blood Donation Camp within the campus today.
The camp drew over 300 voluntary registrants, of which 263 honoured donors ultimately donated blood. Participants were recognised with certificates, badges, gifts, and refreshments as a token of appreciation for their contribution to saving lives.
Participants were recognised with certificates, badges, gifts, and refreshments as a token of appreciation for their contribution to saving lives.
Chandigarh