Expresses grief over loss of lives in Katra incident
ANANTNAG: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo Wednesday visited Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag and held a comprehensive review of the emergency preparedness and healthcare facilities in light of the incessant rains in South Kashmir.
During the visit, the Minister conducted a detailed round of key wards including the Emergency, OTs, and Intensive Care Units, and personally inspected flood preparedness measures such as water drainage, power backup systems, and availability of emergency supplies.
She directed the hospital authorities to create dedicated emergency counters for flood-related patients, enhance sanitation drives to prevent the outbreak of waterborne diseases and ensure proper shelter facilities for attendants accompanying patients. The Minister also instructed that special focus be given to maternal and child health care during emergencies, noting that vulnerable groups require additional support.
During her visit, the Minister interacted with doctors, and paramedical staff. She also reviewed the availability of essential medicines, blood supplies, ambulances, and critical care infrastructure to ensure the hospital remains fully equipped to handle any surge in emergency cases.
The Minister emphasized on the importance of a robust emergency response system, including round-the-clock duty rosters, coordination with district administration, and rapid deployment of mobile medical teams to flood-affected zones.
“Our priority is to ensure that every patient receives timely treatment. Adequate medicines, power backup, safe drinking water and efficient referral linkages are non-negotiable in such situations. Our government is committed to strengthen healthcare institutions across J&K so that people receive quality healthcare services”, she stated.
The Health Minister appreciated the efforts of the medical staff who have been working tirelessly under difficult conditions and assured them of every possible support from the government. She also urged citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with health advisories being issued from time to time.
Director Health Services Kashmir, Director Coordination New GMCs, Medical Superintendent District Hospital Anantnag, HoDs of various specialities, doctors and other concerned officers also accompanied the Minister during the visit.
Meanwhile, Sakeena Itoo expressed deep grief and sorrow over the loss of lives in Mata Vishno Devi landslide incident.
The Minister said that this heart-breaking tragedy has caused deep grief among the residents of J&K. She extended her heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved families of devotees, prayed for their courage and strength to bear this irreparable loss. She also prayed for speedy recovery of injured persons.
“Such moments of tragedy cannot be expressed in words. My thoughts and prayers are with the families and relatives of those who have lost their loved ones”, Sakeena said.
The Minister further added that the administration, particularly the health department, has been mobilised to provide immediate relief and assistance to injured devotees as well as the affected families. She added that the Government stands hand in hand with the grieving families and remains committed to ensure their timely relief and assistance.
