Ganderbal, May 09: The much-anticipated Maternity and Child Care Hospital in Kangan is finally nearing completion, bringing a wave of relief and optimism to residents of the sub-division. As final touches are being applied, there is a growing hope that the longstanding burden faced by expectant mothers will soon be eased.
The hospital, long demanded by the local population for nearly two decades, is now on the cusp of becoming operational—fulfilling a promise made last year by Kangan MLA Mian Mehar Ali.
“This project has been pending for years,” said Ghulam Rasool, a resident of Kangan. “Our women had to travel to Soura or Lal Ded Hospital in Srinagar for even routine maternity care. It was not only difficult but also costly. We are relieved to see the hospital finally take shape.” Local teacher Naseema Bano said: “It’s not just about convenience—it’s about timely care,” she said. “We have lost women and newborns in the past due to delays in reaching Srinagar. This facility could be life-saving.”
She further added: “This is a proud moment for Kangan. A dedicated maternity hospital means our daughters and sisters can receive care closer to home, with dignity and comfort.”
The land for the hospital was identified as early as 2005. The Jammu and Kashmir Housing Board was tasked with executing the project, at an estimated cost of Rs 27.66 crore. Another local resident, Manzoor Ahmad, remarked, “We are thankful to the government and especially to MLA Mehar Ali for following up on this project. For us, this isn’t just a building—it’s a symbol of hope.”
According to official sources, the hospital is expected to significantly reduce the patient load on Srinagar’s Lal Ded Hospital, while ensuring that residents of Kangan and neighbouring areas have access to timely, specialised maternity and paediatric care. “It’s a vital facility,” said a senior health department official. “Once operational, it will not only improve health outcomes for mothers and children in Kangan, but also decentralise maternity care in the district.” Locals now eagerly await the official inauguration, hopeful that what was once a long-standing dream will soon be a reality.
