13-06-2025
Punjab governor Gulab Chand Kataria, wife rushed to IGMC Shimla after experiencing ‘discomfort', discharged later
Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria and his wife, Anita Kataria, were rushed to Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital (IGMC), Shimla, on Thursday night after they complained of uneasiness at their official summer residence, Hem Kunj, located near the Retreat in Chharabra, Shimla.
While Governor Kataria was discharged after preliminary medical treatment, Anita was kept under observation overnight and discharged on Friday morning. The couple subsequently returned to Chandigarh.
Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla visited IGMC on Friday morning to enquire about their health.
Dr Rahul Rao, Medical Superintendent at IGMC, told The Indian Express, 'The Punjab governor and his wife were brought in after experiencing discomfort. A detailed examination indicated symptoms of high-altitude sickness. They had travelled directly from the plains, where the temperature exceeded 40 degrees Celsius, to a much cooler location—over 10 degrees lower than Chandigarh. The Punjab Governor was discharged last night, while his wife was kept under observation as a precaution and discharged this morning. Their medical reports were normal.'
Chharabra is a suburb situated approximately 8,250 feet (2514 m) above sea level in Shimla district. Meanwhile, Chandigarh is situated on an average elevation of 1,053 ft (321 m). Sources said the couple experienced difficulty in breathing and general discomfort, following which they were brought to IGMC around 9 pm.
