Create emergency counters for flood-related patients: Health Minister at GMC Anantnag

Anantnag, Aug 27: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo on 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. Itoo instructed that special focus be given to maternal and child healthcare during emergencies, noting that vulnerable groups require additional support.During her visit, the minister interacted with doctors and paramedical staff. She 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 emphasised 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 strengthening healthcare institutions across J&K so that people receive quality healthcare services,” she said.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, the Health Minister expressed deep grief and sorrow over the loss of lives inthe  Mata Vishno Devi landslide incident. “This heartbreaking tragedy has caused deep grief among the residents of J&K,” she said, extending heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved families of devotees. Itoo prayed for their courage and strength to bear this irreparable loss, and for the 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,” she said.The minister 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.  “The government stands hand in hand with the grieving families and remains committed to ensuring their timely relief and assistance,” she said.