Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, March 9

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police Force (ITBP) has opened up its medical facilities located in forward areas to civilians residing in border regions for availing routine medical treatment.

Director General, ITBP, SS Deswal said during his visit here that the practice was initiated recently to reach out to people residing in remote areas who do not have ready access to medical aid.

Earlier, civilians could get medical help only during an emergency or during special camps organised by the force from time to time. Now, they can routinely walk up to any ITBP medical centre and avail treatment.

According to an ITBP officer, over 40 battalions are deployed in the vicinity of the mountainous border with China, with each battalion controlling a number of border outposts (BOPs) situated along the border.

Each battalion HQs as well as BOPs are equipped with medical facilities. Besides catering to general illness, these can also be lifesavers during a medical emergency by providing first aid. The officer said the ITBP move would benefit thousands of civilians.

The ITBP has also been involved in screening persons evacuated from China for Covid-19.