On May 2, 2025, With the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY) 2025 fast approaching, the Drugs Control Department of Ganderbal district has intensified inspections of pharmacies and medical establishments along the crucial Baltal route via Sonamarg, a key passage for thousands of pilgrims. The proactive drive aims to ensure strict compliance with drug regulations and safeguard public health during the pilgrimage season.
Inspection Drive and Immediate Action
On April 26, 2025, under the supervision of Dr. Shibeer Ahmad Bhat, Assistant Controller Drugs for Ganderbal and Bandipora, a dedicated team inspected 20 medical shops along the Baltal axis. The operation revealed that four pharmacies were violating mandatory provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. Acting swiftly, the team sealed these establishments on the spot under Section 22(d) of the Act to prevent any risk to public health.
A follow-up inspection conducted on May 1 confirmed that the previously sealed shops had rectified their violations and resumed operations in compliance with the guidelines. However, one pharmacy in Kangan was found to be persistently non-compliant and had its license suspended for three days as a disciplinary measure.
Emphasis on High Standards for Yatra Medical Services
Officials emphasized that pharmacies catering to pilgrims must maintain exemplary standards. Dr. Shibeer Ahmad Bhat instructed all chemists to ensure the availability of emergency medicines at all times, maintain proper staff dress codes, and prominently display license details and contact numbers on visible signboards. These measures are critical to providing reliable medical support to pilgrims who undertake the arduous journey.
Quality Assurance at Public Health Facilities
In addition to private pharmacies, the department also inspected the Primary Health Centre (PHC) Sonamarg. Six drug samples were collected from the PHC’s drugstore for laboratory testing to verify the quality and safety of medicines dispensed at public healthcare facilities. This step underscores the department’s commitment to maintaining high standards across both private and government medical outlets.
Safeguarding Pilgrims’ Health Through Vigilance
The Drugs Control Department reiterated that these inspections are part of a comprehensive strategy to protect the health and wellbeing of pilgrims and local residents during the yatra. With thousands expected to traverse the Baltal route, uninterrupted access to safe and effective medicines is vital. The department pledged to continue rigorous monitoring and enforcement throughout the pilgrimage season.
Coordinated Efforts for Medical Preparedness
These regulatory actions complement broader efforts by health authorities to ensure medical preparedness along the yatra route. Recent visits by senior health officials, including the Secretary of Health and Medical Education, have focused on assessing facilities such as the 100-bedded Base Camp Hospital in Baltal and PHC Sonamarg. Emphasis has been placed on maintaining 24/7 emergency services, adequate stock of essential medicines, and efficient patient referral systems to handle any medical emergencies during the pilgrimage.
The crackdown on drug violations along the Baltal route reflects the administration’s strong resolve to uphold public health standards and provide safe, reliable medical services to pilgrims during Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025. Through vigilant inspections, strict enforcement and coordinated healthcare efforts, authorities aim to ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage experience for all.
