Kerala's Health Minister, Veena George, has made a committed pledge to provide comprehensive assistance to the victims of the Kalamassery blast, with a particular focus on addressing their psychological challenges. She has disclosed plans to assemble a dedicated mental health team aimed at offering much-needed support to those affected by the tragic incident.
This mental health support initiative will extend its services to all individuals who were present at the time of the explosion, spanning multiple districts, including Ernakulam, Kottayam, Idukki, Alappuzha, and Thrissur. The program will offer a multifaceted approach to addressing the psychological well-being of these individuals.
Health Minister Veena George has articulated the details of this comprehensive mental health support system, which will be facilitated through the Mental Health Program and Tele MANAS. This approach is designed to be all-encompassing, with emotional assistance made available via phone for individuals with minor injuries or other emotional needs, while direct, in-person services will be rendered to those who are grappling with more pronounced mental health issues. Patients who are currently undergoing treatment in hospitals will also receive specialized support from their respective healthcare facilities.
In a press statement, the Health Minister emphasized the significance of this initiative, highlighting that it aims to provide assistance to a wide array of individuals affected by the Kalamassery blast. This program demonstrates a proactive response to the mental health needs of those who have experienced the traumatic incident.
Individuals in need of psychological support can readily access Tele MANAS by dialing 14416, ensuring that assistance is just a phone call away. Moreover, if circumstances dictate, the services of private mental health professionals and organizations will be enlisted to ensure that the full spectrum of psychological support is available to the affected individuals, as assured by the Minister.
To further evaluate and strategize the secondary-level treatment, assess the provision of mental support, and review the condition of those currently undergoing treatment following the Kalamassery blast, a high-level meeting was convened in Thiruvananthapuram. Minister Veena George took the lead in this assessment, underscoring the government's commitment to addressing the multifaceted needs of the victims.
As of now, a total of 53 individuals have sought medical attention due to the explosion, with 21 of them presently under treatment in various hospitals. Among these, 16 individuals are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), while three are in critical condition in private medical facilities. Extensive efforts are being exerted to ensure that they receive the most effective and specialized treatment. Some of the injured individuals may even necessitate surgical procedures to address their medical needs.
To ensure that these victims receive the highest level of expert care, a 14-member medical board has been established, further underscoring the government's commitment to addressing the physical and mental well-being of those affected by the Kalamassery blast.
