SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has set January 2025 as the deadline for the operationalisation of the newly constructed additional block at the Bone & Joint Hospital, Barzulla, a DIPR statement reads.
This modern block, funded by the World Bank under the Jhelum Tawi Flood Recovery Project (JTFRP), will add 160 beds, increasing the hospital’s capacity from 150 to 310 beds.
The facility, built using earthquake-resilient technology, is critical to addressing the hospital’s space constraints caused by a 2022 fire incident that reduced its original capacity of 200 beds.
During his inspection, Chief Minister directed the executing agencies to ensure swift completion to enhance patient care and dedicate the facility to public service.
He also visited the 500-bedded Children’s Hospital in Bemina, where attendants from remote areas raised concerns about the absence of a Sarai (inn) for their stay. He immediately directed the concerned authorities to construct a Sarai to alleviate these difficulties.
Hospital staff highlighted challenges related to space constraints for expanding super-specialty services and a shortage of medical personnel. The Chief Minister assured that these issues would be prioritised for resolution.
The Chief Minister reaffirmed his government’s commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir. He instructed hospital authorities to ensure timely availability of medicines and essential supplies while addressing staffing shortages across health institutions.
Accompanied by Health Minister Sakeena Itoo, senior faculty members, and other officials, the Chief Minister reiterated the government’s focus on enhancing public healthcare services and infrastructure.
