TPCODL mobile health dispensaries care for over 29,000 pilgrims during Rath Yatra

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, JULY 12, 2025

As the colossal chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Gooddess Subhadra rolled through Puri’s Grand Road this Rath Yatra, TP Central Odisha Distribution Limited (TPCODL) — a joint venture of Tata Power and the Government of Odisha — rolled out help of another kind: its Mobile Health Dispensaries (MHDs). Operated under the CSR health initiative “Arogya,” these units became lifelines for thousands of devotees braving heat, humidity, and surging crowds.

Strategically stationed at three high‑traffic locations — TPCODL’s control room at Shree Gundicha Temple (Saradhabali), the bustling Palishree Mela on the sea beach, and Puri Railway Station — the MHDs treated more than 29,000 pilgrims across Rath Yatra, Bahuda Yatra, and the glittering Suna Besha. Each van was staffed by a doctor, nurse, and pharmacist, and stocked with first‑aid supplies, BP monitors, ORS sachets, and essential medicines — exactly what devotees needed to combat heat exhaustion, dehydration, and minor injuries amid a gathering that topped a million.

“Serving pilgrims during this sacred festival is our humble pledge to the community,” said Arvind Singh, CEO, TPCODL. “By bringing healthcare to the very heart of the celebration, we make sure every devotee’s spiritual journey remains safe and healthy,” he added.

The MHDs’ impact extends far beyond festival days. Over the last year they have delivered primary healthcare to 200,000 people in 2,700 villages across the Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Dhenkanal, and Paradeep electrical circles — often the first medical touchpoint for remote communities. During crises such as Cyclone Dana, these mobile clinics doubled as emergency response units, reaching hard‑hit hamlets before conventional relief could arrive. In isolated areas like Bagapatia (Kendrapada) and Kankadahada (Dhenkanal), the vans run pre‑scheduled circuits and align with local markets or gram sabhas to maximise reach.

Whether navigating festival crowds or cyclone‑ravaged backroads, TPCODL’s Mobile Health Dispensaries exemplify the company’s mission to electrify lives not only with power, but with compassion.