Ganderbal, Aug 24: A critical healthcare project in Ganderbal district of Central Kashmir, the 50-bedded Primary Health Center (PHC) in Kullan, remains unfinished a decade after its construction began due to a lack of funds. The delay in completing this essential facility has left locals from far-flung areas grappling with healthcare challenges, particularly during the harsh winter months.
Initiated during the 2011-12 period, the PHC’s construction was intended to provide vital medical services to communities in remote regions like Kullan, Rayil, Rezan, Gohipura, and Gagangeer. However, inadequate funding has severely hampered the progress of the construction, causing frustration among the local population.
The deteriorating state of the partially constructed facility has raised alarm among residents, with the first floor reportedly on the brink of collapse. With the hospital located along the Srinagar-Leh highway, its proximity to a major route underscores its potential significance in serving both locals and tourists.
Currently, the PHC operates from a cramped and outdated building, struggling to accommodate the influx of patients seeking medical attention. This scarcity of space has significantly impeded the hospital’s ability to function effectively. As a result, many locals have been compelled to undertake arduous journeys to hospitals in Srinagar, which has led to tragic consequences in some cases due to delayed medical attention.
The long-delayed project, estimated to cost Rs 2.50 crores, is under the supervision of the Jammu and Kashmir Housing Board. Although assurances were made last year by a senior health official that the work had been allocated to Nabard (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development) and the Road and Buildings (R&B) department, there has been no observable progress to date.
Despite attempts to reach out to the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Ganderbal for comments on the ongoing situation, there has been no response forthcoming. The lack of accountability and transparency surrounding the stalled project only adds to the growing concerns of the local populace.
