New Delhi: In light of escalating cross-border tensions, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has issued a directive mandating all private hospitals and nursing homes in the national capital to paint Red Cross symbols on their rooftops for identification during emergencies.
Mandatory Compliance Under Disaster Preparedness Protocol
The DGHS, under the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi, has invoked Clause 14 of the Delhi Nursing Homes Registration (Amendment) Rules, 2011, which obligates private healthcare facilities to provide cooperation and medical aid during disasters or emergencies.
Hospitals Asked to Review Readiness
The order also includes strict directives aimed at strengthening preparedness:
- Maintain an updated list with contact details of key specialists — surgeons, anaesthetists, orthopaedicians, and burn specialists.
- Submit details of ICU bed availability, operational ventilators, and oxygen supply status.
- Ensure generator sets are fully functional and ready for immediate use.
Deadline for Compliance
Hospitals must submit a scanned compliance report by 11:00 AM on May 11, 2025, highlighting all required preparations. The DGHS stressed that non-compliance will not be tolerated given the urgency of the situation.
This move follows a broader effort to enhance medical infrastructure readiness as part of national disaster response planning.
