Srinagar, Aug 27 (KNO): Amid the flood-like situation triggered by incessant rains across Jammu and Kashmir, Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo on Wednesday visited Lal Ded (LD) Hospital here to assess the preparedness of healthcare facilities.
Talking to reporters Itoo, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said that she would personally inspect every major hospital in the Valley to evaluate requirements and ensure readiness in case of any emergency. “Here in LD Hospital, I interacted with the Principal GMC Srinagar, HODs and Medical Superintendent to review the arrangements. The GMC authorities have already taken necessary steps to deal with any emergency in case of floods. The priority is to ensure patient safety and uninterrupted healthcare services,” she said.
The Minister remarked that floods are “in the hands of Allah” but assured that Kashmir is relatively better off compared to Jammu, where the situation remains grim. “As rains have stopped here, the situation is under control. Had it continued, things could have turned worse. Hospitals are our top priority, and every possible step has been taken to maintain normalcy,” she added.
Itoo informed that similar measures have been implemented at GMC Anantnag and other healthcare institutions across the Valley to safeguard patients and ensure smooth medical care.
Responding to questions about incomplete flood mitigation projects after the 2014 deluge, she said, “That answer can only be given by those who were in government from 2014 to 2024. We took over just nine months ago, but we have initiated all possible steps. Whatever more will be required, will be done.” She further remarked, “If you play with nature, it will play back with you, and floods are a direct result of that.”
Later in the day, Itoo carried out a series of visits to major hospitals in Srinagar, including Bone and Joint Hospital Barzulla, Children’s Hospital Bemina, and Shri Maharaja Hari Singh (SMHS) Hospital. During her inspections, she interacted with doctors, patients, and attendants to review facilities and services.
Officials said the Minister directed the concerned authorities to strengthen healthcare delivery with special focus on emergency services and patient convenience. She reviewed healthcare infrastructure, availability of medicines, and patient care arrangements at all hospitals visited.
The Minister also revealed that during the night she was informed about possible water ingress at GMC Anantnag due to heavy rains. “I immediately contacted the District Development Commissioner Anantnag, and necessary preventive steps were taken. Today, I visited the hospital to take stock of the situation, and everything is under control. My aim is to ensure patients get proper treatment without facing any inconvenience,” she said.
Itoo maintained that while the situation in Jammu and some parts of Kashmir is worrying, all hospitals remain safe and are functioning normally. “Patients are receiving treatment as per requirements. Whatever is needed is being addressed on priority, and whatever more will be required will be done on time,” she assured—(KNO)