The much-anticipated groundbreaking of the Indian Council of Medical Research’s new Centre for High Altitude Medicine and Public Health Research in Keylong, Lahaul & Spiti, will not go ahead as planned on July 11. The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare confirmed the postponement, citing relentless downpours and landslide activity that have made travel across the district unsafe.
The proposed centre, envisioned as India’s first dedicated institution focused on Himalayan health challenges, is meant to expand ICMR’s existing Keylong field unit into a comprehensive research and innovation hub. Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda had been expected to preside over the launch, which was slated to feature a ceremonial Bhumi Pujanand the unveiling of a commemorative postal cover.
Officials say a new date will be announced once conditions in the region stabilize. Authorities have expressed regret over the disruption while emphasizing that safety concerns necessitated the delay.
Written By: Sayan Das
Graphics by: Pramit Hazra
