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Bengaluru: Patients visiting government hospitals in Karnataka recently were shocked when they noticed that some drugs had labels of Animal Husbandry Veterinary Sciences (AHVS) but the department concerned has said it was only a logo related issue and that the medicines were indeed meant for human use.

The Karnataka State Medical Supplies Corporation Limited (KSMSCL) said there was an error in the 'logogram' design, but the product was of standard quality and 'human use only'.

As the typo led to panic among patients, KSMSCL Managing Director Chidananda Sadashiva Vatare said in a statement that the product permission copies were submitted and confirmed they were permitted to manufacture as per required medical standards and for human use only.

According to sources in KSMSCL, there were seven drugs which had the AHVS label. This included eye and nasal drops.

These drugs were supplied by a private firm with a total value of Rs 62.9 lakh and it reached the government warehouse on January 5, this year.

The drugs were Methyl Prednisolone injection, Carboxymethylcellulose Eye Drops, Oxymetazoline Pediatric (Nasal) Drops, Flurbiprofen Eye Drops IP, Sodium Chloride (Nasal) Drops, Timolol Maleate Drops and Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride (Nasal) Solution IP.

"The analytical test reports from NABL/government approved laboratories and in-house test reports of the products opined as the products referred above are of standard quality. The test reports from the private empanelled laboratories of KSMSCL have reported these products are of standard quality," Vatare said.

The products were supplied to all the warehouses in the state by the supplier by January 5, he said, adding the supplier requested KSMSCL on January 18 to accept the supplied products by masking the typo.

"It is to be noted that no changes were done in the label of the product information provided. Also, the logogram design was correct in one part of the product and only in another part was there a printing error in the logogram design which was masked, where instead of Health department it was typed as AHVS department."

"The supplier was also imposed a fine of one per cent on the purchase order value and all warehouses were instructed to distribute the products only after masking the error. The supplier was also warned not to repeat the mistake," he said.

BP Dinesh Kumar, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime and Traffic), announced that fines and penalties for traffic violations will soon increase. The goal is to make Mangaluru's roads accident-free.

Despite having a private bus system for 80 years, the number of vehicles in Mangaluru has doubled, but the roads have not expanded. Many bus drivers frequently break the rules, making workshops for drivers essential, according to the DCP. He noted that even with fines, violations continue, and bus conductors often lack patience.

The DCP spoke at a workshop for bus conductors and drivers organized by the Dakshina Kannada Bus Owners Association and the Canara Bus Owners Association, in collaboration with St. Aloysius (Deemed to be University). The workshop aimed to improve relationships among bus personnel, the public, and students.

New criminal laws—Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam—will take effect from July 1, replacing the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and increasing penalties for violations. Offenses like racing, drunken driving, using a mobile phone while driving, overtaking, and traffic signal violations could lead to license cancellations. Bus conductors who fail to issue tickets lose passengers' trust. Despite campaigns against using shrill horns, complaints continue about their use on long-distance buses. The DCP emphasized the importance of following traffic rules and maintaining discipline.

Assistant Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Najma Farooqi highlighted the need to revise bus timings and prioritize this task. Mangaluru currently has 386 city buses and 566 service buses. Recent efforts have led to the removal of 236 shrill horns and legal action against violators, but complaints persist. The use of computerized ticket machines is mandatory, and conductors must treat passengers, especially women, with respect. Installing doors on buses is also crucial for safety.

RTO Sridhar Malnad stated that around 2,000 buses, including KSRTC-operated ones, serve approximately 200,000 passengers daily. Ensuring passenger safety is a key responsibility of bus drivers. To enhance safety, 15 transport department officials review video recordings from cameras installed on buses. Plans include integrating CCTV tracking devices. The department offers weekly training sessions for 20 staff members at its training center in Mudipu.

Mangaluru: To prevent tragic incidents during the rainy season, Home Guards will be stationed at beaches in Dakshina Kannada starting June 1, announced District Home Guard Commandant Dr. Murali Mohan Choontharu.

During visits to Sasihithlu and Surathkal beaches, Dr. Choontharu provided guidance and suggestions to the home guards on flood rescue operations. He emphasized the importance of these measures in ensuring public safety during the monsoon season.

Deployment Period: June 1 to September 30

Beaches Covered:

Someshwar

Mogaveerpatna

Ullal

Panambur

Tannirbhavi

Fathima Beach

Surathkal

Sasihithlu

Two home guards will be stationed at each beach, working in shifts from 7 am to 7 pm. This ensures continuous monitoring and quick response to any emergencies that may arise.

Preparedness and Coordination

Dr. Choontharu highlighted that the sea conditions are particularly hazardous during the monsoon, with high waves posing significant risks to unaware tourists. The presence of beach guards aims to mitigate these dangers and prevent loss of life.

The home guards will work in close coordination with the Police Department and Fire and Emergency Services to enhance disaster management efforts across the district.

Additionally, a reserve team of 10 home guards will be on standby at the district Home Guard office to respond to emergency calls during the monsoon.

Extended Responsibilities

Beyond beach surveillance, home guards will be vigilant at other critical locations, including:

Subrahmanya Bathing Ghats

Upinangady Sangama

Bantwal Mulki

Sullia

Belthangady

Expert swimmers and divers have been identified and are ready to assist in emergency rescue operations.

Dr. Choontharu's comprehensive plan aims to enhance safety and ensure a quick response to emergencies, providing peace of mind to both residents and visitors during the challenging monsoon season.