SRINAGAR: Minister for Health, Medical Education, Social Welfare, and Education, Sakeena Itoo, on Friday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and providing quality patient care across Jammu and Kashmir. During her day-long visit to healthcare facilities in Khanyar and Hazratbal constituencies, she was accompanied by MLAs Ali Mohammad Sagar and Salman Ali Sagar.
The Minister inspected several key sites, beginning with the Urban Public Health Centre (UPHC) at S.R. Gunj, where she reviewed ongoing upgrades. She instructed authorities to expedite remaining works, including the rooftop, approach road, and lift, aiming for early public access. Itoo highlighted the project’s heritage-sensitive design, which will significantly improve healthcare services for residents.
At Gousia Hospital, Khanyar, she announced plans to construct an additional block on a nearby site to address space and parking issues, urging departments to complete formalities and prepare the Detailed Project Report (DPR). She also inspected the Sub-District Hospital at Habbak Chowk, Hazratbal, announcing the commencement of work on a 50-bed hospital block, a project approved by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, with local MLA Salman Ali Sagar actively pursuing its approval.
Itoo expressed dedication to ensuring accessible, affordable, and modern healthcare, especially for economically weaker sections, reducing dependence on private hospitals. She revealed that around 400 new doctors are being deployed across the region to address staff shortages and enhance service delivery. The government aims to fill healthcare gaps through regular monitoring and timely project completion, with foundation stones to be laid soon.
She urged community participation in maintaining cleanliness and sanitation within healthcare facilities. Later, in Burzahama, she directed authorities to identify land for a new Primary Health Centre. Several delegations met her, voicing concerns, which she assured would be addressed promptly. Senior officials from various departments accompanied her, overseeing the progress of healthcare initiatives.