Delhi govt ramps up health preparedness as pollution hits hospitals | Delhi News

New Delhi: Amid rising air pollution and its growing impact on health, the Delhi government has stepped up medical preparedness and accelerated upgrades to healthcare infrastructure to ensure timely treatment of patients with respiratory and pollution-related diseases.Government hospitals have been directed to maintain adequate stocks of essential medicines, deploy specialist doctors and create specific mechanisms to manage cases related to poor air quality, including asthma and respiratory disorders. Emergency systems have also been strengthened to deal with peak patient influx during severe pollution episodes.Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh said the government is pursuing a dual strategy to reduce pollution while strengthening healthcare delivery. “Clean air and strong public health systems must go hand in hand. While efforts are made to curb pollution, ensuring affordable and timely healthcare for citizens remains a priority,” he said.A major policy change has been the implementation of the Ayushman Bharat scheme in Delhi. Since its launch, more than Rs 28 million have been disbursed for treatments, offering significant financial relief to financially vulnerable patients. Primary healthcare is being expanded through Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, with 238 centers currently operational and more than 200 planned in the next two months. These centers offer free medicines and over 90 diagnostic tests, reducing pressure on tertiary hospitals.To close the diagnostic gaps, the Delhi government has cleared the installation of 12 MRI machines and 24 CT scan machines in government hospitals, aiming to reduce waiting times and dependency on private facilities.Screening efforts for tuberculosis, cervical cancer, and anemia have been intensified; To date, more than 75,000 screening tests have been performed, allowing for early detection and timely treatment. Improvements to hospital infrastructure are underway, including renovations and construction of new blocks, while surveillance has been strengthened to ensure zero tolerance for counterfeit medicines. Officials said the initiatives reflect an integrated strategy that combines strengthening the health system with broader pollution control measures to safeguard public health in the national capital.