Mobile eye-care van donated

Millions of people lose their eyesight due to negligence or ignorance which can be prevented with simple eye tests and treatment. To help the rural population which cannot reach an ophthalmologist, District 3170, in association with District 5300, USA and TRF, donated an ophthalmic van, costing $39,400 and equipped with all modern equipment to Siddhagiri Hospital and Research Centre, Kaneri.

This air-conditioned unit will go to interior regions to treat underprivileged people. From this van an ophthalmologist can do detailed eye check-up for eye diseases relating to retina, cornea, vision problems, etc.

The project was funded by the DDF of Districts 3170 and 5300 and RCs Kolhapur Sunrise and Walnut Valley (Diamond Bar, USA) and other associates which was matched with TRF’s Global Grant of $17,723.

The 200-bedded Siddhagiri Hospital extends free medical service to poor patients. Through this van, three ophthalmologists will conduct eye screening camps in and around 70 villages nearby Kolhapur to benefit over five lakh people.

During the handing over of the van, PDG Ganesh Bhat, D 3170, said “This Global Grant project will not only save the rural community from preventable blindness but also educate people on eye-related issues.” Rtn Raj Ramchandani, a member of RC La Habra, D 5350, USA said, “Though I am settled in the US for the past 51 years, my mind and soul are Indian and I feel it is my responsibility to help the underpriveleged in India and I will continue to do so.”