THE INDIAN MEDICAL GAZETTE.
200
A MARINE SANITARIUM FOR CALCUTTA.
By Surgeon L. H. Lees, M.D. Civil, Umballah. This
important
matter has been before the
public
for some
months past, but all the proposed schemes seem, so far as I am aware, to have fallen through. I propose now to offer an opinion on the claims of Akyab, on the Arracan Coast, as a
Sanitarium, one which will be experience, during a period of three was Civil Surgeon of that port.
Marine and-' I
based
on
observation
and a half years, when
It was often talked of in my time as a desirable resort, but so perfect as means of communication were not then they Unlike most of now are, neither was the place so well known. the other stations on the eastern shores of the Bay of Bengal,
the
on the sea, fully exposed to all the winds that bygone times, it had anything but a good reputation for healthiness amongst Europeans, and this was believed to be owing in great measure to the practice of cultivating rice in and immediately around the european quarter. If I mistake not, it was Sir Arthur Phayre, then Commissioner of Arracan, who first put a stop to this practice, and with most beneficial results. To that distinguished officer, at any rate, is mainly due the credit of converting what was once a jungly, unhealthy settlement, into the healthiest on the coast. He laid out most of the excellent roads which now exist, thoroughly drained the whole place, and planted nearly all the trees which adorn the station, and are the general subject of remark by visitors. For several miles round, instead of rice fields, nothing but pasture and garden land was to be seen during his incumbency, but I noticed with regret that the immediate neighbourhood of ths station was again being slowly brought under rice cultivation. Remonstrance proved in vain in my time, and I know not how
Akyab
stands
blow.
In
far it has extended since. One great desideratum in favor of
Akyab
as a
Sanitarium,
is its easiness of access from Calcutta. There is a steamer once a week, going and returning, and the trip, which occupies about 48 hours by the direct route, and 60 hours by that via Chittagong, is a truly enjoyable The first land usually called the
"
Barongos,"
at proper seasons of the year. is the lofty group of islands which close in the south-eastern side one
sighted
of the broad estuary of the Koladyne River, on the north-western shore of which stands our Marine Sanitarium. On nearing shore, the light-house at the mouth of the river comes into view. A little intricate navigation carries the vessel round the
light-house
rock to the entrance of the harbour. The course is then due north past the famous "point," and the bungaljws of the lining the beach, for about a mile, when the steamer
^Europeans
opposite the custom house.
A pull of two or three the passenger to shore. From the deck of the steamer, as she glides up the harbour to her anchorage ground, the panorama is
drops
anchor
hundred
yards brings
strikingly
pretty.
her way amongst the shipping, which usually crowds the harbour in the rice season, bungalow after bungalow opens out, ensconced amid groves of trees, and surrounded by fertile
Seeking
and there a flag-staff, denoting a Governgrass fields, with here ment building, or foreign consulate. A closer acquaintance on shore only tends to confirm the first impression, and to lead to
the conviction that Akyab is really well worth a visit. Nor is the view from the shore less worthy of notice. On the opposite side of the estuary of the Koladyne, here about five miles " wide, rise the lofty group of islands, the Barongos," already noticed. On the summit of the most southerly and highest of the group, may be discerned by the naked eye on a clear day, the remains of an old light-house, long since closed. These islands, and this light-house in particular, are the favorite resorts of pic-nic parties in fine weather. An extensive view of sea and land is obtainable from the summit, but the climb is a trying one. To the north-east in the far distance, are the mountains of Pegu, separating Burrnaa Proper from Arracan,
[October 1,
187a
and forming an agreeable background to the nearly level landscape which intervenes. Then to the south, are a group of small islands, or rather rocks, landlocking, as it -were, the harbour, and upon one of which the present light-house stands. The station itself does not stand high, hut sufficiently so to admit of the most perfect drainage. The same cannot be said of the native town, which is low and flat, and in many places is below the level of the sea. It adjoins the european quarter, and lines the shore for some miles up the river. The drainage of the town has baffled the ingenuity of Engineers and Doctors since our occupation. The station has two aspects directed east and south, the former sloping down to the river, the latter facing the sea. The houses are disposed on these slopes, as well as here and there to the rear. Jutting out from the angle formed by the slopes, far into the point," to which there the sea, is a tongue of land called is a carriage drive. Here, mo3t of the residents congregate of an evening. The sea beach proper stretches, as far as the eye can reach, the point" in a direction njrth-west. Unlike all away from others along this coast, it is very clean, hard, and sandy. It shelves very gradually, and affords admirable sea bathing the point" too, there are without danger from sharks. At numerous deep pools below high-water mark and surrounded by "
"
"
rocks, which
are
the favorite resort of bathers.
The houses of new comers.
the floors are
European residents are attractive objects to They are built on strong iron-wood posts, and often raised 9 or 10 feet from the ground, there
being a clear way underneath the house. In this manner most perfect dryness is secured, and free perflation of air is permitted. The walls are mostly of bamboo framing, covered with plaster. Doors and windows are numerous, and there are generally no fire places. The roofing or thatch consists of leaves curiously strung in rows on bamboo twigs, and overlapping each other, the whole being laid over a bamboo framework. The leaves form a perfectly water-tight covering, and require renewal about From personal experience, I can testify to once in three years. these apparently rude tenements being very comfortable, and well suited to the climate. White ants abound and are very destructive. One has occasionally the mortification to find a whole wardrobe eaten up in a single night, but in a house well raised from the from
time
ground
on
solid iron-wood
to time with earth
oil,
posts, smeared over danger need be
but little
apprehended. The European population of the station is of two classes, fixed and floating*, or migratory. The former consists of the Government officials, merchants, and their clerks, with their families ?the latter of the crews of rice vessels visiting the port from January to June. Speaking from memory, I do not recollect a single case of death from climatic causes, amongst the residents of the station, during my incumbency, nor, which is perhaps of more importance, do I remember ever, (with but two exceptions) having had to recommend change of air to any one as a remedial It is true tbat a process of acclimatization has to be takes up his abode, but gone through when a resident first this depends much upon the season of arrival. As is well known, fern- and ague are common to all the settlements on the coasts of the Bay of Bengal, but it is only at certain seasons of the year that they can be said to prevail at Akyab, and these are the very times when invalids from India would bo least likely to require change of air. Strange as it may measure.
or appear, the cold weather months, from the end of Octobcr after rico harvest, till the end of February, are the most of the whole year, and if a new comer arrives ut
unhealthy
this season to take up his abode, he is pretty sure to undergo rather a severe ordeal of acclimatization in the shape of often
repeated
attacks of fever.
?
Literally
"
lloatiDg."
October 1,
1870.]
A MARINE SANITARIUM FOR CALCUTTA.?BY L. H. LEES.
The weather in the cold season may almost he said to be
bracing, but the N. E. Moonsoon, prevailing at the time, and sweeping over the dense jungle and rice lands of Arracan, is pregnant with malaria, which neutralises to a great extent its otherwise beneficial influence. From the beginning of March, when the N. E. Monsoon blows less steadily, on through the rains and S. "W. Monsoon, I believe the climate of Akyab to be second only to our more favorite hill stations in point of healthiness, I would and for certain diseases decidedly better adapted. speak on this point with some rpservation, as far as regards the rains, though I must confess, that, in the case of permanent residents, the S. W. Monsoon months are considered, and with some truth, to be the most healthy months of the year. Fever is then almost entirely unknown, and bronchitic affections are in the ascendant. The rains usually set in on or about the loth of June, and continue, with little abatement, till the first week or so in September. In these three months, upwards of 200 inches of rain fall, and indeed during my first year of residence, there were, to the best of my recollection, nearly 270
inches in that time. I remember on one occasion in the month of August 1865, registering 18 inches in a single day, and 10 inches on the day following. feature of the climate, but one common to most that coast, is its dryness at other seasons of the year. Scarcely a drop of rain falls from November to April inclusive.* and the pasture lands are nearly as much dried up in the A
prominent
towns
on
months
there,
as
sprino-
Of course, from its proxisome moisture in the air, but
in Northern India.
the sea, there is always seem sufficient to influence vegetation. A great point in estimating the fitness of a locality as a sanitarium, is uniformity of temperature. Now, at Akyab the mean winter and summer temperatures do not vary more than
mity
to
it does not
10? or 12,? while the range in both periods rarely exceeds 5? or 6? in the 24 hours. There are times, of course, at the when the eastern shores up of the S. W. Monsoon for instance, destructive gales and of the are visited and
breaking
cyclones,
by
Bay
such times the range is wider; but these visitations are fortunately not frequent. The climate may, therefore, be regarded at
very equable one. During the so-called warm months, when the monsoons are in abeyance, a refreshing and delightful sea breeze blows with great regularity, rendering punkahs quite unnecessary. Doors as a
and windows may at all times be thrown open; a state of matters very different from what obtains in the same season in Northern India. Tatties are of course quite unknown, and are considered amongst the category of luxuries
punkahs not necessities,
very few
of the houses
being furnished with
them at all. To 6um up, I would say shortly, that the climate of Akyab is equable, and for eight months of the year very moderately conditions which entitle us to conclude that it is three moist; to afford a most beneficial and salutary to cool and
well adapted change down and up, with a month's the invalid from India. The voyage to seen fail in residence in the station, 1 have seldom restoring There is one class of invalid, and unfortuto perfect health. had better seek change nately a very common one, which elsewhere. I mean those whose systems are poisoned by malaria, and whose livers and spleens, it may be, are secondarily afiected. Home is the only sure refuge in such cases. Ordinary cases of debility following fever, primary hepatic affections (if not too far advanced), dysentery, diarrhoea?such cases indeed as are usually met with in Indian practice?and all lung affections, may with safety be entrusted to the climate of Akyab from March till at least the end of June. No one would think of sending a manifestly enlarged liver from the plains to the hills in the hot weather. The change is too great, skin action is checked, and too much work is thrown on the diseased organ. Four cases of this kind came under my observa-
201
tion at Simla in 1868. sea-shore and have told
opinion,
a
course
Abcess resulted, and all died. The of sea bathing, if early resorted to, would
a different tale. The same remarks apply, in my to cases of diarrhoea and dysentery, both of which are
very uncommon amongst the white population of Akyab. A very conclusive proof of the suitability of the climate to European constitutions, is the uniformly excellent physique of the residents. Nearly all European nationalities are represented, but I think the Scotch, and next the Germans, preponderate. The crews of vessels visiting the port generally enjoy excellent
health.
There is a small European hospital for the reception and treatment of the sick, but it is not resorted to unless in cases of serious illness. Cholera of a severe type occasionally
shipping. In 1866, I think it was, a very serious mortality occurred; but the European residents were left unattacks the scathed.*
The native inhabitants of the town, numbering perhaps 1.5,000, of which about one-third are Bengallees from Chittagong
and neighbourhood, are as a rule healthy. The Arracanese people, or "Mughs" as they are called, are a well-built muscular race, prosperous and happy under our rule. They hare, however, little regard for life and limb amongst themselves, as the hospital and police reports amply testify. From the Bengallee settlers and immigrants, are recruited, almost entirely, " the menial class in Arracan. The Mughs" are too prosperous as merchants and petty traders, to accept the ordinary service of Rice and fish, which are cheap and an European household. abundant, are the ordinary articles 'of diet, and as long as a Mugh" gets sufficient of each to supply his wants, he cares not to work. The youthful members of a family are employed all day long fishing on the piers and breakwaters, so that in this way a sufficiency of one element is secured without much labor. Native infant life is very precarious in Arracan. A large proportion of the children die,f but those who survive, develope into strong and robust men and women. In the case of European children, the climate seems to be well adapted to their vigorous and healthy growth, and intending excursionists need have no fear in taking them to Arracan. But, supposing a trip to be under contemplation, ways and "
must be considered. To the dwellers in Calcutta and Lower Bengal generally, the passage down would cost much less than the inland journey to Simla or Mussourie, and though it would be more expensive than the journey to Darjeeling, I take it that the fatigue would be immeasurably less, and the enjoymeans
ment immeasurably greater. The railway journey to the hills in the hot weather is very trying to invalids, and I know of several cases in which a fatal result can clearly be traced to it aloneIn fine weather, the Bay of Bengal is like a sea of glass, so
that the discomfort of sea sickness need not be dreaded. There well-found and fast steamers on the line, and I believe that their commanders are uniformly attentive to passengers, invalids are
more
especially.
one's difficulties
In 24 hours
begin.
Akyab
is
reached,
is
There
are
usually
some
storms about
Christmas.
then
no
dak bungalow, so that a he have no friends in the station. Hospitality, however, is the small coma prominent element in the social relations of in any needy case. The exercised be soon would and very munity, movement now on foot to establish a hotel should be pushed
vigour, and will, I doubt not, be eagerly embraced Meantime, Government might be induced to the residents. by throw open the doors of its large circuit house to visitors, as an
forward with
any decided steps are taken. This the wharf at which passengers land, and to close is bungalow is roomy and commodious. It is intended only for the reception of Government officials on tours of inspection, and is tenantless nine days out of ten. No great inconvenience would therefore
experimental measure, before
*
This was not the case in 1869. I am informed then struck down. t Vide Indian Medical Gazette for April and May
that several residents
were *
and
hotel or Government fare badly should would passenger
There
1866.
THE INDIAN MEDICAL GAZETTE.
202
[October 1,
1870.
result from the concession.*
about, heedless
but all the
Several have been killed within municipal limits. Elephants, rhinoceros, &c., &c., in addition to the tiger, are the most for-
Bungalows may be rented at times, very quickly snapped up by the residents, and those available are scarcely fit for habitation. Vehicles abound at Calcutta rates, and are under police supervision. Though not rapid or elegant, they will be found serviceable in taking travellers for their morning sea bath and evening drive. Servants should be taken down from Calcutta, for those offering on the spot are, generally speaking, exorbitant in their demands, and are not to be trusted. Supplies of all kinds are procurable at slightly enhanced Calcutta rates. There are several european shops, or "stores" as they are called, which drive a profitable trade during the shipping season. The public markets are well worth a visit, but I would recommend visitors to fortify themselves with a pocket handkerchief well soaked in lavender water, as the smell of "gnapee" (a compound of rotten fish and condiments in high favour with the Arracanese) pervades every thing, and is by no means an agreeable bouquet. The fish market in particular is an attractive object. I could not trust myself to enumerate the many species exposed for sale, but " Hilsa" of the finest quality, Pomfret" and Sole" good
ones
are
"
are
amongst the kinds
most
frequently
"
seen on
the breakfast
"Sharks" of any size cau be had to order, either in bulk or in segments. " Turtles" are to be seen at every stall in the hot weather months, and turtle soup is then a cheaper than mutton broth. Finally, owing to the rocky nature table.
variety
"
of the coast to the south, delicious Oysters" are at most procurable; but I would recommend all connoisseurs to cross over in a boat, and pick them for themselves from the
times
once an agreeable and salutary occupation. Itiee being, par excellence, the produce of the country and adjoining sea-board, are of course much cheaper than in Calcutta. The local consumption of fish, great as it is, admits of large quantities being salted lor exportation to the opposite shores of the Bay of Bengal. In conclusion, it only remains for me to indicate shortly how visitors may pass an agreeable mouth or two at our pioposed
rocks
:
it is at
and fish
marine sanitarium.
during at lea3t eight months of the year is perfectly boating excursions, and as it is of wide extent, there need be no limit to the enjoyment. On the Akyab side the channel is deep, but it shoals off towards the I)arongo3" on the opposite shore. The harbour being completely shut in from the sea, little danger of being overtaken by storms need be apprehended. Deep-sea-fishing may be had to any extent, and with very little trouble. Bengallee fisherman are always at hand to point out the ground, and to direct operations. I have spoken of picnics on the opposite shore of the river. Inland, on the Akyab side, there are also several desirable to all the residents, and where an spots, which are well-known enjoyable day may be spent by those disinclined to cross the The river
safe for
"
river. Sea of
a
bathing
visit to
I would of course consider as the main objcct and I have already pointed out the locali-
Akyab,
ties where this may be safely enjoyed. Early morning is tho is a good rule to have the operation over proper time, and it before sunrise. Like all other stations, Akyab has its cricket club and its
meeting. I can assure intending visitors that "the Akyab Derby" i3 no mean spectacle! The whole population ?European and Native, men, women, and children,?turn out to behold it, and money freely changes hands. Athletic sports are held now and again, and attract large
annual race
numbers of spectators. The gun and rifle aro
not of much use in Arracan. Tho country abounds with game, large and small, but there is too much cover for tho sportsman to act. The tiger may almost l?w' considered a domestic animal in these part3. He prowls
of the presence of his natural
enemy,
man.
midable denizens of the trackless forests of the interior. Snipe shooting is the favorite sport, and it may be enjoyed to the full by those who take to it, during the months of September
Only the healthy and robust however can engage impunity. 1 might enlarge further on the merits of the little settlement, but I think enough has been said to convince the profession and public generally, tliat the invalid and holiday-seeker might, with much advantage to both health and pocket, take steamer to Akyab occasionally, instead of the railway to the hills. The privilege leave of civil aud military officers might thus be most agreeably spent. I hope soon to see that the agitation now begun has resulted in a unanimous decree, that Akyab should henceforth be called the Brighton" of Calcutta/in appellation which, in my opinion, and October.
in it with
"
it well merits.
200
A MARINE SANITARIUM FOR CALCUTTA.
By Surgeon L. H. Lees, M.D. Civil, Umballah. This
important
matter has been before the
public
for some
months past, but all the proposed schemes seem, so far as I am aware, to have fallen through. I propose now to offer an opinion on the claims of Akyab, on the Arracan Coast, as a
Sanitarium, one which will be experience, during a period of three was Civil Surgeon of that port.
Marine and-' I
based
on
observation
and a half years, when
It was often talked of in my time as a desirable resort, but so perfect as means of communication were not then they Unlike most of now are, neither was the place so well known. the other stations on the eastern shores of the Bay of Bengal,
the
on the sea, fully exposed to all the winds that bygone times, it had anything but a good reputation for healthiness amongst Europeans, and this was believed to be owing in great measure to the practice of cultivating rice in and immediately around the european quarter. If I mistake not, it was Sir Arthur Phayre, then Commissioner of Arracan, who first put a stop to this practice, and with most beneficial results. To that distinguished officer, at any rate, is mainly due the credit of converting what was once a jungly, unhealthy settlement, into the healthiest on the coast. He laid out most of the excellent roads which now exist, thoroughly drained the whole place, and planted nearly all the trees which adorn the station, and are the general subject of remark by visitors. For several miles round, instead of rice fields, nothing but pasture and garden land was to be seen during his incumbency, but I noticed with regret that the immediate neighbourhood of ths station was again being slowly brought under rice cultivation. Remonstrance proved in vain in my time, and I know not how
Akyab
stands
blow.
In
far it has extended since. One great desideratum in favor of
Akyab
as a
Sanitarium,
is its easiness of access from Calcutta. There is a steamer once a week, going and returning, and the trip, which occupies about 48 hours by the direct route, and 60 hours by that via Chittagong, is a truly enjoyable The first land usually called the
"
Barongos,"
at proper seasons of the year. is the lofty group of islands which close in the south-eastern side one
sighted
of the broad estuary of the Koladyne River, on the north-western shore of which stands our Marine Sanitarium. On nearing shore, the light-house at the mouth of the river comes into view. A little intricate navigation carries the vessel round the
light-house
rock to the entrance of the harbour. The course is then due north past the famous "point," and the bungaljws of the lining the beach, for about a mile, when the steamer
^Europeans
opposite the custom house.
A pull of two or three the passenger to shore. From the deck of the steamer, as she glides up the harbour to her anchorage ground, the panorama is
drops
anchor
hundred
yards brings
strikingly
pretty.
her way amongst the shipping, which usually crowds the harbour in the rice season, bungalow after bungalow opens out, ensconced amid groves of trees, and surrounded by fertile
Seeking
and there a flag-staff, denoting a Governgrass fields, with here ment building, or foreign consulate. A closer acquaintance on shore only tends to confirm the first impression, and to lead to
the conviction that Akyab is really well worth a visit. Nor is the view from the shore less worthy of notice. On the opposite side of the estuary of the Koladyne, here about five miles " wide, rise the lofty group of islands, the Barongos," already noticed. On the summit of the most southerly and highest of the group, may be discerned by the naked eye on a clear day, the remains of an old light-house, long since closed. These islands, and this light-house in particular, are the favorite resorts of pic-nic parties in fine weather. An extensive view of sea and land is obtainable from the summit, but the climb is a trying one. To the north-east in the far distance, are the mountains of Pegu, separating Burrnaa Proper from Arracan,
[October 1,
187a
and forming an agreeable background to the nearly level landscape which intervenes. Then to the south, are a group of small islands, or rather rocks, landlocking, as it -were, the harbour, and upon one of which the present light-house stands. The station itself does not stand high, hut sufficiently so to admit of the most perfect drainage. The same cannot be said of the native town, which is low and flat, and in many places is below the level of the sea. It adjoins the european quarter, and lines the shore for some miles up the river. The drainage of the town has baffled the ingenuity of Engineers and Doctors since our occupation. The station has two aspects directed east and south, the former sloping down to the river, the latter facing the sea. The houses are disposed on these slopes, as well as here and there to the rear. Jutting out from the angle formed by the slopes, far into the point," to which there the sea, is a tongue of land called is a carriage drive. Here, mo3t of the residents congregate of an evening. The sea beach proper stretches, as far as the eye can reach, the point" in a direction njrth-west. Unlike all away from others along this coast, it is very clean, hard, and sandy. It shelves very gradually, and affords admirable sea bathing the point" too, there are without danger from sharks. At numerous deep pools below high-water mark and surrounded by "
"
"
rocks, which
are
the favorite resort of bathers.
The houses of new comers.
the floors are
European residents are attractive objects to They are built on strong iron-wood posts, and often raised 9 or 10 feet from the ground, there
being a clear way underneath the house. In this manner most perfect dryness is secured, and free perflation of air is permitted. The walls are mostly of bamboo framing, covered with plaster. Doors and windows are numerous, and there are generally no fire places. The roofing or thatch consists of leaves curiously strung in rows on bamboo twigs, and overlapping each other, the whole being laid over a bamboo framework. The leaves form a perfectly water-tight covering, and require renewal about From personal experience, I can testify to once in three years. these apparently rude tenements being very comfortable, and well suited to the climate. White ants abound and are very destructive. One has occasionally the mortification to find a whole wardrobe eaten up in a single night, but in a house well raised from the from
time
ground
on
solid iron-wood
to time with earth
oil,
posts, smeared over danger need be
but little
apprehended. The European population of the station is of two classes, fixed and floating*, or migratory. The former consists of the Government officials, merchants, and their clerks, with their families ?the latter of the crews of rice vessels visiting the port from January to June. Speaking from memory, I do not recollect a single case of death from climatic causes, amongst the residents of the station, during my incumbency, nor, which is perhaps of more importance, do I remember ever, (with but two exceptions) having had to recommend change of air to any one as a remedial It is true tbat a process of acclimatization has to be takes up his abode, but gone through when a resident first this depends much upon the season of arrival. As is well known, fern- and ague are common to all the settlements on the coasts of the Bay of Bengal, but it is only at certain seasons of the year that they can be said to prevail at Akyab, and these are the very times when invalids from India would bo least likely to require change of air. Strange as it may measure.
or appear, the cold weather months, from the end of Octobcr after rico harvest, till the end of February, are the most of the whole year, and if a new comer arrives ut
unhealthy
this season to take up his abode, he is pretty sure to undergo rather a severe ordeal of acclimatization in the shape of often
repeated
attacks of fever.
?
Literally
"
lloatiDg."
October 1,
1870.]
A MARINE SANITARIUM FOR CALCUTTA.?BY L. H. LEES.
The weather in the cold season may almost he said to be
bracing, but the N. E. Moonsoon, prevailing at the time, and sweeping over the dense jungle and rice lands of Arracan, is pregnant with malaria, which neutralises to a great extent its otherwise beneficial influence. From the beginning of March, when the N. E. Monsoon blows less steadily, on through the rains and S. "W. Monsoon, I believe the climate of Akyab to be second only to our more favorite hill stations in point of healthiness, I would and for certain diseases decidedly better adapted. speak on this point with some rpservation, as far as regards the rains, though I must confess, that, in the case of permanent residents, the S. W. Monsoon months are considered, and with some truth, to be the most healthy months of the year. Fever is then almost entirely unknown, and bronchitic affections are in the ascendant. The rains usually set in on or about the loth of June, and continue, with little abatement, till the first week or so in September. In these three months, upwards of 200 inches of rain fall, and indeed during my first year of residence, there were, to the best of my recollection, nearly 270
inches in that time. I remember on one occasion in the month of August 1865, registering 18 inches in a single day, and 10 inches on the day following. feature of the climate, but one common to most that coast, is its dryness at other seasons of the year. Scarcely a drop of rain falls from November to April inclusive.* and the pasture lands are nearly as much dried up in the A
prominent
towns
on
months
there,
as
sprino-
Of course, from its proxisome moisture in the air, but
in Northern India.
the sea, there is always seem sufficient to influence vegetation. A great point in estimating the fitness of a locality as a sanitarium, is uniformity of temperature. Now, at Akyab the mean winter and summer temperatures do not vary more than
mity
to
it does not
10? or 12,? while the range in both periods rarely exceeds 5? or 6? in the 24 hours. There are times, of course, at the when the eastern shores up of the S. W. Monsoon for instance, destructive gales and of the are visited and
breaking
cyclones,
by
Bay
such times the range is wider; but these visitations are fortunately not frequent. The climate may, therefore, be regarded at
very equable one. During the so-called warm months, when the monsoons are in abeyance, a refreshing and delightful sea breeze blows with great regularity, rendering punkahs quite unnecessary. Doors as a
and windows may at all times be thrown open; a state of matters very different from what obtains in the same season in Northern India. Tatties are of course quite unknown, and are considered amongst the category of luxuries
punkahs not necessities,
very few
of the houses
being furnished with
them at all. To 6um up, I would say shortly, that the climate of Akyab is equable, and for eight months of the year very moderately conditions which entitle us to conclude that it is three moist; to afford a most beneficial and salutary to cool and
well adapted change down and up, with a month's the invalid from India. The voyage to seen fail in residence in the station, 1 have seldom restoring There is one class of invalid, and unfortuto perfect health. had better seek change nately a very common one, which elsewhere. I mean those whose systems are poisoned by malaria, and whose livers and spleens, it may be, are secondarily afiected. Home is the only sure refuge in such cases. Ordinary cases of debility following fever, primary hepatic affections (if not too far advanced), dysentery, diarrhoea?such cases indeed as are usually met with in Indian practice?and all lung affections, may with safety be entrusted to the climate of Akyab from March till at least the end of June. No one would think of sending a manifestly enlarged liver from the plains to the hills in the hot weather. The change is too great, skin action is checked, and too much work is thrown on the diseased organ. Four cases of this kind came under my observa-
201
tion at Simla in 1868. sea-shore and have told
opinion,
a
course
Abcess resulted, and all died. The of sea bathing, if early resorted to, would
a different tale. The same remarks apply, in my to cases of diarrhoea and dysentery, both of which are
very uncommon amongst the white population of Akyab. A very conclusive proof of the suitability of the climate to European constitutions, is the uniformly excellent physique of the residents. Nearly all European nationalities are represented, but I think the Scotch, and next the Germans, preponderate. The crews of vessels visiting the port generally enjoy excellent
health.
There is a small European hospital for the reception and treatment of the sick, but it is not resorted to unless in cases of serious illness. Cholera of a severe type occasionally
shipping. In 1866, I think it was, a very serious mortality occurred; but the European residents were left unattacks the scathed.*
The native inhabitants of the town, numbering perhaps 1.5,000, of which about one-third are Bengallees from Chittagong
and neighbourhood, are as a rule healthy. The Arracanese people, or "Mughs" as they are called, are a well-built muscular race, prosperous and happy under our rule. They hare, however, little regard for life and limb amongst themselves, as the hospital and police reports amply testify. From the Bengallee settlers and immigrants, are recruited, almost entirely, " the menial class in Arracan. The Mughs" are too prosperous as merchants and petty traders, to accept the ordinary service of Rice and fish, which are cheap and an European household. abundant, are the ordinary articles 'of diet, and as long as a Mugh" gets sufficient of each to supply his wants, he cares not to work. The youthful members of a family are employed all day long fishing on the piers and breakwaters, so that in this way a sufficiency of one element is secured without much labor. Native infant life is very precarious in Arracan. A large proportion of the children die,f but those who survive, develope into strong and robust men and women. In the case of European children, the climate seems to be well adapted to their vigorous and healthy growth, and intending excursionists need have no fear in taking them to Arracan. But, supposing a trip to be under contemplation, ways and "
must be considered. To the dwellers in Calcutta and Lower Bengal generally, the passage down would cost much less than the inland journey to Simla or Mussourie, and though it would be more expensive than the journey to Darjeeling, I take it that the fatigue would be immeasurably less, and the enjoymeans
ment immeasurably greater. The railway journey to the hills in the hot weather is very trying to invalids, and I know of several cases in which a fatal result can clearly be traced to it aloneIn fine weather, the Bay of Bengal is like a sea of glass, so
that the discomfort of sea sickness need not be dreaded. There well-found and fast steamers on the line, and I believe that their commanders are uniformly attentive to passengers, invalids are
more
especially.
one's difficulties
In 24 hours
begin.
Akyab
is
reached,
is
There
are
usually
some
storms about
Christmas.
then
no
dak bungalow, so that a he have no friends in the station. Hospitality, however, is the small coma prominent element in the social relations of in any needy case. The exercised be soon would and very munity, movement now on foot to establish a hotel should be pushed
vigour, and will, I doubt not, be eagerly embraced Meantime, Government might be induced to the residents. by throw open the doors of its large circuit house to visitors, as an
forward with
any decided steps are taken. This the wharf at which passengers land, and to close is bungalow is roomy and commodious. It is intended only for the reception of Government officials on tours of inspection, and is tenantless nine days out of ten. No great inconvenience would therefore
experimental measure, before
*
This was not the case in 1869. I am informed then struck down. t Vide Indian Medical Gazette for April and May
that several residents
were *
and
hotel or Government fare badly should would passenger
There
1866.
THE INDIAN MEDICAL GAZETTE.
202
[October 1,
1870.
result from the concession.*
about, heedless
but all the
Several have been killed within municipal limits. Elephants, rhinoceros, &c., &c., in addition to the tiger, are the most for-
Bungalows may be rented at times, very quickly snapped up by the residents, and those available are scarcely fit for habitation. Vehicles abound at Calcutta rates, and are under police supervision. Though not rapid or elegant, they will be found serviceable in taking travellers for their morning sea bath and evening drive. Servants should be taken down from Calcutta, for those offering on the spot are, generally speaking, exorbitant in their demands, and are not to be trusted. Supplies of all kinds are procurable at slightly enhanced Calcutta rates. There are several european shops, or "stores" as they are called, which drive a profitable trade during the shipping season. The public markets are well worth a visit, but I would recommend visitors to fortify themselves with a pocket handkerchief well soaked in lavender water, as the smell of "gnapee" (a compound of rotten fish and condiments in high favour with the Arracanese) pervades every thing, and is by no means an agreeable bouquet. The fish market in particular is an attractive object. I could not trust myself to enumerate the many species exposed for sale, but " Hilsa" of the finest quality, Pomfret" and Sole" good
ones
are
"
are
amongst the kinds
most
frequently
"
seen on
the breakfast
"Sharks" of any size cau be had to order, either in bulk or in segments. " Turtles" are to be seen at every stall in the hot weather months, and turtle soup is then a cheaper than mutton broth. Finally, owing to the rocky nature table.
variety
"
of the coast to the south, delicious Oysters" are at most procurable; but I would recommend all connoisseurs to cross over in a boat, and pick them for themselves from the
times
once an agreeable and salutary occupation. Itiee being, par excellence, the produce of the country and adjoining sea-board, are of course much cheaper than in Calcutta. The local consumption of fish, great as it is, admits of large quantities being salted lor exportation to the opposite shores of the Bay of Bengal. In conclusion, it only remains for me to indicate shortly how visitors may pass an agreeable mouth or two at our pioposed
rocks
:
it is at
and fish
marine sanitarium.
during at lea3t eight months of the year is perfectly boating excursions, and as it is of wide extent, there need be no limit to the enjoyment. On the Akyab side the channel is deep, but it shoals off towards the I)arongo3" on the opposite shore. The harbour being completely shut in from the sea, little danger of being overtaken by storms need be apprehended. Deep-sea-fishing may be had to any extent, and with very little trouble. Bengallee fisherman are always at hand to point out the ground, and to direct operations. I have spoken of picnics on the opposite shore of the river. Inland, on the Akyab side, there are also several desirable to all the residents, and where an spots, which are well-known enjoyable day may be spent by those disinclined to cross the The river
safe for
"
river. Sea of
a
bathing
visit to
I would of course consider as the main objcct and I have already pointed out the locali-
Akyab,
ties where this may be safely enjoyed. Early morning is tho is a good rule to have the operation over proper time, and it before sunrise. Like all other stations, Akyab has its cricket club and its
meeting. I can assure intending visitors that "the Akyab Derby" i3 no mean spectacle! The whole population ?European and Native, men, women, and children,?turn out to behold it, and money freely changes hands. Athletic sports are held now and again, and attract large
annual race
numbers of spectators. The gun and rifle aro
not of much use in Arracan. Tho country abounds with game, large and small, but there is too much cover for tho sportsman to act. The tiger may almost l?w' considered a domestic animal in these part3. He prowls
of the presence of his natural
enemy,
man.
midable denizens of the trackless forests of the interior. Snipe shooting is the favorite sport, and it may be enjoyed to the full by those who take to it, during the months of September
Only the healthy and robust however can engage impunity. 1 might enlarge further on the merits of the little settlement, but I think enough has been said to convince the profession and public generally, tliat the invalid and holiday-seeker might, with much advantage to both health and pocket, take steamer to Akyab occasionally, instead of the railway to the hills. The privilege leave of civil aud military officers might thus be most agreeably spent. I hope soon to see that the agitation now begun has resulted in a unanimous decree, that Akyab should henceforth be called the Brighton" of Calcutta/in appellation which, in my opinion, and October.
in it with
"
it well merits.
