Surat witnessed a unique blend of faith and healthcare as the New Civil Hospital introduced a unified medical screening facility for Amarnath and Hajj pilgrims. To ease the process and avoid long queues, the hospital administration, for the first time, arranged all essential health checks at a single location. Pilgrims can now receive reports for CBC, RBS, blood pressure, ECG, and other mandatory tests under one roof.
Under the guidance of Medical Superintendent Dr. Dharitri Parmar, more than 2,700 Amarnath pilgrims and 350 Hajj pilgrims were issued fitness certificates within the last ten days alone. Around 6,500 people from Surat city and district are expected to undertake the Amarnath Yatra, while 1,698 pilgrims will depart for Hajj.
Iqbal Kadivala, Vice President of the Nursing Council and Trauma In-charge, explained that this initiative reflects not only improved healthcare services but also promotes social harmony. By facilitating the certification process for both pilgrimages at one venue, the hospital has made travel preparations easier and more efficient for people from both Hindu and Muslim communities.
RMO Dr. Ketan Nayak added that although the hospital has been conducting health screenings for both pilgrimages for the past decade, this is the first year the arrangements have been made simultaneously and at a shared site. This coordinated effort stands as a strong example of communal unity, where pilgrims from different faiths prepare for their spiritual journeys side by side.
Mohsin Lokhandwala, Chairman of the State Waqf Board, extended his best wishes to pilgrims of both communities for their sacred journeys.
Contributing to the smooth execution of the initiative were Hajj Committee member Akram Shah, Medical Officer Dr. Laxman Tehlani, Amarnath Yatra Committee’s Jagdish Mer, Hajj Committee’s Zaheerbhai Hakim Singh, Javed Jhanjha, Junaidbhai, Salim Memon, Alibhai, and Hamji Jariwala, along with several dedicated hospital staff members.
Beyond offering healthcare services, the New Civil Hospital has sent a powerful message of unity and mutual respect. Rooted in the spirit of harmony and shared devotion, this initiative enhances Surat’s image as a city that values both service and secularism, strengthening the spiritual journey for all.
