Work on additional block at SDH Habbak stalled, awaiting BOCA, LCMA’s decision: Sakeena

Srinagar, Mar 18: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo on Tuesday informed the Assembly that the work on the additional block at Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Habbak has been stalled due to pending approvals from the Lakes Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA) & the Board of Competent Authority (BOCA).
This statement came in response to a question raised by Youth National Conference (YNC) Provincial President and MLA Hazratbal, Salman Ali Sagar, who sought clarification on the reasons behind the halt in construction and the steps being taken to resume the work. Sagar also highlighted concerns regarding the growing patient influx at the hospital, questioning whether the SDH Habbak had sufficient infrastructure and manpower to handle the increasing demand for healthcare services.
Responding to these concerns, Itoo explained that the upgradation project for SDH Habbak, which was approved in September 2022 with an estimated cost of Rs. 18.99 crore, had faced delays due to the location of the hospital within a 200-meter buffer zone of Dal Lake. “Under the regulations of the LCMA, no new construction can take place within this buffer zone, in line with a 2022 Jammu and Kashmir High Court order that only permits repairs or renovations to existing structures.”
The Minister clarified that although the project had been initiated, LCMA raised objections, leading to a halt in construction. She further informed the Assembly that, “in accordance with a High Court directive issued in August 2024, the matter had been referred to BOCA for a decision on whether to grant approval for the upgradation. However, despite the Court’s directive, no progress has been made by either LCMA or BOCA, causing further delays.”
Regarding the hospital’s capacity to handle the growing patient numbers, Itoo acknowledged that while the hospital has made strides in improving its diagnostic capabilities, “including the introduction of 24/7 digital X-rays, high-end ultrasound, and enhanced maternal and child health services, the infrastructure is still insufficient to meet the rising demand.” She emphasized that additional building infrastructure is critical to ensure that the hospital can cater to the increasing healthcare needs of the local population.
On the issue of staffing, the Minister assured that SDH Habbak is adequately staffed, with 48 out of 61 sanctioned positions filled, including medical officers, consultants, and paramedical staff. However, she noted that some vacancies remain, particularly in support roles, and these would be addressed as soon as possible.