Jahangeer Ganaie
Pulwama, Apr 10: In a landmark initiative aimed at strengthening cardiac care in remote areas of south Kashmir, eminent cardiologist Dr Upendra Kaul has launched the ‘Heart Clinic on Wheels’, a mobile healthcare unit designed to deliver specialised heart care services to underserved populations in Pulwama, Shopian and Kulgam districts.
A native of Hawal village in Rajpora tehsil of Pulwama, Dr Kaul rolled out this initiative through the Gauri Kaul Foundation, in collaboration with Indian Oil Corporation, combining philanthropy and innovation to address the region’s rising burden of heart disease.
The mobile clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, including ECG machines, blood pressure monitors and other essential screening equipment. Services are being offered either free of cost or at a nominal fee, ensuring accessibility for all.
“This project is about reaching the unreached,” Dr Kaul said.
“Many in rural Kashmir face significant challenges in accessing cardiac specialists. Through this clinic, we aim to bring expert care directly to their communities,” he added.
While the clinic will not function as a door-to-door service, it will be stationed at designated health and wellness centres across the three districts, operating in coordination with local health departments. After initial consultations and screenings, detailed reports will be forwarded to concerned authorities to ensure continuity of care and follow-up, he said.
Dr Kaul used the launch to raise awareness about preventive heart care, emphasising the dangers of sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, tobacco use and unmanaged stress. “A balanced diet, physical activity, and controlling blood pressure and sugar levels are crucial. Prevention is the best cure,” he said.
The renowned cardiologist advised people to limit rice and red meat, and instead opt for vegetables, pulses and fruits. He also stressed the need for regular medical checkups, particularly for those with a family history of heart disease or other risk factors.
The ‘Heart Clinic on Wheels’ is poised to become a lifeline for remote communities, helping bridge the healthcare gap and ensure early detection and treatment of cardiovascular conditions. It represents a model of how specialised care can be made mobile, inclusive and impactful. (KNO)
