Focus shifts to addressing congestion and infrastructure issues at Dalgate facility
Srinagar: Health Minister Sakina Masood on Saturday clarified that the government has no plans to relocate Srinagar’s Chest Disease (CD) Hospital from its current location in Dalgate to GB Pant Hospital in Sonwar. Dispelling long-standing speculation, the Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing pressing issues at the existing facility.
“There is no proposal to shift the hospital at present with this Government,” Masood stated during her visit to the hospital. She acknowledged significant challenges, including congestion, lack of beds, and the absence of lifts and ramps, and assured efforts to resolve these issues.
Background on Relocation Debate
The relocation plan, announced by the J&K Government in October 2022, proposed shifting the CD Hospital to GB Pant Hospital following the latter’s vacancy after the Children’s Hospital moved to Bemina. However, the move stalled due to critical shortcomings at GB Pant, particularly its inadequate oxygen generation capacity of 500 liters—far below the required 3,500 liters for chest disease patients. In contrast, the Dalgate facility ensures high-flow oxygen supply to every bed.
While some outpatient and diagnostic services were temporarily shifted to GB Pant, the Dalgate facility continues to face overcrowding and resource constraints, raising questions about the feasibility of the relocation plan.
Minister’s Observations and Assurances
During her visit, Masood was accompanied by MLA Lal Chowk, Ahsan Pardesi. She interacted with patients and staff, expressing concern about the lack of space for additional beds and the urgent need to expand the hospital’s infrastructure.
“Many patients have told me today they are unable to get beds, but how will the hospital provide when they have no space for more beds?” she remarked. She reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance policy toward negligence in patient care and vowed strict action against doctors engaging in private practice during hospital hours.
Stakeholders Demand Long-Term Vision
Medical professionals and stakeholders have expressed relief at the Minister’s clarification but stressed the need for a comprehensive strategy to improve healthcare services in Jammu and Kashmir.
“The government must prioritize upgrades to the CD Hospital’s existing infrastructure rather than relying on temporary fixes. For now, the Minister’s statement has brought some clarity, but it also underscores the need for a long-term vision,” a senior doctor from the hospital stated.
With unresolved challenges and an ever-increasing patient load, the future of the CD Hospital’s operations remains a critical issue for healthcare delivery in the region.
