Godavari Pushkaralu 2027: AP Plans 30,000 Medical Personnel, 1,110 Camps

The Andhra Pradesh government is stepping up preparations for the Godavari Pushkaralu 2027, with a large-scale healthcare network planned to cater to an estimated 8 crore to 10 crore devotees. Health Minister Satyakumar Yadav has directed officials to ensure adequate medical personnel and emergency facilities throughout the 12-day religious event.

The Godavari Pushkaralu will be held from June 26 to July 7, 2027, across six districts. Authorities plan to establish 525 Pushkar ghats in East Godavari, West Godavari, Dr BR Ambedkar Konaseema, Eluru, Kakinada and Polavaram. The number is more than double the 225 ghats used during the previous Pushkaralu. Konaseema will have the highest number with 175 ghats, followed by East Godavari with 167.

The health infrastructure will comprise 1,110 medical camps, 950 first-aid centres, 300 health centres and 30 temporary field hospitals. Ghats will be equipped with oxygen supplies, emergency equipment, stretchers and wheelchairs. A multi-level referral mechanism will facilitate the transfer of patients to PHCs, CHCs, regional and district hospitals, government general hospitals and medical colleges, depending on the severity of their condition.

Emergency services will be supported by 523 vehicles, including 108 emergency ambulances, 104 mobile health units and 19 boat ambulances. Dedicated emergency routes and a green corridor will be established in coordination with the police and revenue departments to ensure faster ambulance movement.

Officials estimate that 30,196 healthcare personnel will be required. Around 1,600 additional temporary specialists, nurses, paramedical workers and support staff are also expected to be engaged. Services of retired employees and volunteers may be utilised during the event.

The government is reviewing proposals for 490 civil works, initially estimated at ₹93 crore. Another ₹23 crore is estimated for improvements at 23 hospitals, covering drinking water, sanitation, oxygen pipelines and toilets.

April 30, 2027 has been set as the deadline for completing approvals, tenders, construction, procurement, equipment installation, recruitment and training. Officials have also been instructed to strengthen surveillance of drinking water quality, food safety and infectious diseases.

The government plans to fill 78 food safety officer posts, 97 laboratory technical posts and 913 ASHA positions. The entire Godavari Pushkaralu preparedness programme will be digitally documented and developed as a future-ready model for managing large-scale pilgrim gatherings.