Srinagar, May 23: Residents of Lachipora area in Boniyar tehsil of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district have urged authorities to post a gynaecologist in their village.
A delegation of locals expressed their distress over the absence of essential medical specialists, stating that it has caused significant hardship in the area. “With a population of around 4,000, our village is facing severe healthcare challenges,” said Mushtaq Ahmad Mir, a local resident. “In the absence of a gynaecologist and other key specialists, patients – particularly pregnant women and children are forced to travel nearly 40 kilometres to Baramulla hospital for even basic medical care.”
He added: “This not only causes immense distress but also poses a serious risk to lives, especially during medical emergencies or harsh weather conditions.” The residents have also demanded the appointment of a paediatrician in the area. “Having a paediatrician would be a huge relief for the children here,” said Ghulam Qadir Ahangar, another resident. Mohd Rajab Mir, whose one-year-old son tragically died on May 22, expressed deep concern over the lack of adequate medical facilities in the area. “My son was unwell, and we tried to take him to the Baramulla hospital, but he died on the way. It is heartbreaking that our village has a health department sub-centre, yet it has remained closed for the past fifteen years. The building is practically abandoned and there is nothing inside but stacks of wood,” he said. “If we had a proper medical facility in our village, we would not have had to travel such a long distance. He might have survived.” Locals further criticised the continued neglect by local representatives over the years, saying it has worsened their struggle to access adequate healthcare. “We urge the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor and the district administration to address this issue on humanitarian grounds,” he appealed.
