Bhatkal: The mobile train 'Lifeline express' was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner S Nakul on August 1 at Bhatkal Railway Station.

This is a collaborative effort of Impact India Foundation, Union Ministry of Health and Indian Railways, to offer on-the-spot diagnostic, medical and advanced surgical treatment for people in inaccessible rural areas. The Konkan Railway hosts this mobile hospital in association with the Central Railway.

Speaking at a press conference, DC appealed the masses to benefit from this opportunity which provides free treatment and surgeries from expert medical professionals. He also said that the information have been passed onto the rural areas by District as well as Taluk medical officers, Anganwadi workers and ASHA activists. Till date, 1500 applications have been submitted. He also said informed that a separate medical programme will be arranged for the doctors. He praised IFS Damodar A T for his efforts in bringing the train to the district. 

The express will provide medical check-up and surgeries for patients suffering from cataract, cleft lips, problems related to orthopaedic, ear, dental, fits etc. Well-known surgeons will conduct health examinations and surgery in the train itself from August 1 to August 21.

Rajneesh, in charge of the mobile train, said that this scheme was gaining popularity among the public because of its easy access to the patients and stated it as 'bridging up the gap between the people and facilities.'

Started on July 16, 1991, the Lifeline Express has so far clocked over 90,000 km across the country and treated over one million disabled poor in rural areas treating and restoring sight, movement, hearing and correction of cleft lips with dental and neurological treatment free of cost.

The campaign is sustained with the help of the collaborators as well as donors from within and outside the country. The hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art medical facilities and equipment to cater to the needs of rural patients.

Ex- MLA J D Naik expressed his happiness over the medical services administered in the mobile train. Assistant Commissioner Ramesh, Tahsildar V N Badkar, Railway officer Suleiman were present on the occasion.