KOCHI:
In a pioneering move to ensure the safety of attendees at the Cochin Carnival, Aster Medcity has transformed historic British jail near Parade ground also known as Jail of Freedom Struggle into a fully-equipped field hospital with an emergency team. This strategic initiative aims to prevent medical emergencies during the New Year celebrations, addressing challenges experienced in previous years due to crowd control and inadequate medical services.
As the official medical partner for the Cochin Carnival, Aster Medcity collaborated with the Government Disaster Management team, recognizing the potential for critical situations during the festive event.
Aster Medcity’s innovative approach involves designating two of the eight jail rooms as resuscitation units to provide immediate care for potentially life-threatening emergencies. The remaining space will cater to casualties, offering a range of medical services within the converted facility. The field hospital will operate from 6:00 pm to 3:00 am on the day of the carnival, strategically placing the medical team at the main stage to reach attendees directly from the emergency point.
To further enhance the efficiency of emergency response, Aster Medcity, in collaboration with the police, has established a Triage point—an elevated platform at the Carnival ground next to the police control room. This point will provide immediate medical attention to individuals, and those requiring more complex care will be transported to major hospitals.
“This year’s security measures mark a historic milestone in the Cochin Carnival’s 39- year history. Implementing a comprehensive medical support system for the first time since its inception allows for prioritized care. It helps efficient transfer to specialized hospitals in the event of a disaster, such as an acute emergency like stampede, which ensures that those in need receive adequate and timely medical attention, “ said Dr. Johnson K Varghese, Consultant – Emergency Medicine at Aster Medcity Kochi, who leads a thirty-member medical team.
The collaboration with local authorities, including the Corporation, Police, Disaster Response Force, and ambulances, ensures a coordinated and effective response to any medical emergencies.
