GMC Baramulla employees demand change in winter timings

Srinagar, Dec 03: Employees of Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla on Tuesday raised concerns about the early morning work schedule as they face significant challenges during the harsh winter season.
With temperatures plummeting in the Kashmir region, staff members, particularly those commuting from distant areas, urged administration to revise current timing. Several employees highlighted the difficulties of reaching the college on time.
“The mornings are bitterly cold, and with limited public transport options, many of us struggle to get here safely,” said one staff member. “The safety of our staff should be a priority, and adjusting the timing by even an hour can make a huge difference.”
Many employees from South and Central Kashmir have pointed out that the first train reaches Baramulla at 9:30 a.m., making it impossible for them to report for duty at 9:00 a.m. They expressed frustration, questioning how they are expected to meet the current schedule under such circumstances.
The freezing winter mornings have particularly impacted support staff and healthcare workers who start their duties early. Many have called for a temporary schedule adjustment during the peak winter months to ease the strain and ensure uninterrupted functioning.
The employees hope that the administration will take swift action, keeping in mind both staff welfare and the smooth operation of GMC Baramulla during this challenging winter season. They appealed for the intervention of Secretary Health and Medical Education Department, Syed Aabid Rashid Shah.
In April this year, the Health and Medical Education Department extended working hours in all Government Medical and Dental colleges in Jammu and Kashmir from 9 am to 5 pm.