Parra demands fast-tracked completion of AIIMS Awantipora

Srinagar, July 05: People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Youth President, Waheed Ur Rehman Parra on Friday expressed deep concern over the delays in the construction of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in south Kashmir’s Awantipora.
In a statement issued here, Parra said that despite being a project of national importance approved in 2019 with an estimated cost of Rs 1,828 crore, the AIIMS Awantipora project remains far from completion, with nearly 50 percent of the work still pending.
“With the January 2025 deadline looming, it is evident that this vital healthcare infrastructure has been grossly neglected,” he said.
The PDP leader questioned why the government is ignoring this crucial project that is essential for the healthcare needs of the people of Kashmir. He termed the situation unacceptable and demanded immediate action and fast-tracked completion.
“Despite reassurances, I am sceptical about meeting the January 2025 deadline. The government must prioritise and expedite this project to ensure that the people of Kashmir have access to essential healthcare services,” he said.
Waheed highlighted the stark contrast between the progress of AIIMS Jammu, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February, and the slow pace of AIIMS Awantipora. He expressed disheartenment over this disparity in the development of such critical projects, raising questions about the commitment to equitable healthcare development across regions.
Parra stressed the potential impact of the completed AIIMS Awantipora on the local community. “The completion of AIIMS Awantipora would not only enhance healthcare facilities but also create numerous job opportunities and contribute to the socio-economic development of south Kashmir,” he said. He urged the government to recognise these benefits and work diligently to ensure the project’s timely completion.
The PDP Youth President urged the authorities to address and resolve all pending issues swiftly to ensure the project is completed without further delay. He said the PDP stands ready to support any measures that will ensure the project’s success and improve the healthcare landscape of Kashmir.
Parra added that the project was initiated and planned by Mehbooba Mufti during her tenure as Chief Minister of the erstwhile state and was followed up on by her personally. He demanded a probe to investigate the reasons behind the delay in the project.