Srinagar: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education Sakeena Itoo on Friday reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and ensuring quality patient care across Jammu and Kashmir during a day-long tour of healthcare institutions in the Khanyar and Hazratbal constituencies.
The Minister was accompanied by Ali Mohammad Sagar and Salman Ali Sagar, among others.
During her visit to the Urban Public Health Centre at S.R. Gunj, Itoo inspected ongoing upgradation works and directed the concerned authorities to expedite completion of the remaining components, including the rooftop, approach road and lift facility, so that the upgraded centre can be made functional at the earliest.
She said the project has been designed while preserving the area’s local heritage and will significantly improve healthcare services for residents.
At Gousia Hospital, the Minister announced the construction of an additional block on a nearby identified site to address space constraints and parking issues while enhancing healthcare facilities for the local population. She directed the concerned departments to complete all required formalities and prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) without delay.
Inspecting the Sub-District Hospital at Habbak Chowk in Hazratbal, Itoo announced that work on the approved 50-bedded hospital block will commence shortly. She thanked Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for approving the project and appreciated the efforts of MLA Salman Ali Sagar in pursuing the matter.
The Minister said the government is focused on improving patient care and creating modern healthcare facilities so that people, particularly those from economically weaker sections, do not have to rely on private hospitals for quality treatment.
Highlighting recent developments in the health sector, she said around 400 new doctors are being deployed across Jammu and Kashmir to address staff shortages and improve healthcare delivery.
“We are identifying and addressing the existing gaps in the healthcare system. Our objective is to provide accessible, affordable and quality healthcare to every citizen,” she said.
Itoo assured that foundation stones for the approved projects would be laid soon and that regular monitoring would be carried out to ensure their timely completion. She also appealed to the public to help maintain cleanliness and sanitation in healthcare institutions, stressing the importance of community participation in achieving better health outcomes.
Later, the Minister visited Burzahama and directed the concerned authorities to identify suitable land for the construction of a Primary Health Centre to cater to the healthcare needs of the local population.
During the tour, several public and individual delegations met the Minister and apprised her of various issues and demands. She assured them that all genuine concerns would be examined and addressed on priority.
Senior officers from various departments, including the Managing Director of KPDCL, Vice Chairman LCMA, Director School Education Kashmir, Principal GMC Srinagar, Chief Engineer R&B and Additional Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, accompanied the Minister during the visit.
