ANANTNAG, October 22: The proposed 250-bedded Maternity and Child Care Hospital in Anantnag is awaiting finalisation of its location, with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stating on Thursday that the site initially identified at Janglat Mandi was found unsuitable due to space constraints.
Speaking to reporters after chairing a district development review meeting, Omar said funds for the project were available and the government intended to begin construction as soon as an alternative site was finalised.
He said elected representatives, the Health Minister, officials of the Health Department and members of civil society would jointly discuss the available options to ensure that the project did not face further delays.
According to the Chief Minister, the department’s assessment indicated that Janglat Mandi did not have sufficient space to accommodate the proposed hospital, prompting the administration to search for a more suitable location.
The hospital is expected to strengthen maternal and child healthcare services across south Kashmir by improving access to maternity facilities, newborn care and paediatric treatment.
The Chief Minister also said that the location of the proposed mini-secretariat in Anantnag had yet to be decided. He noted that the issue had been raised by all MLAs and would be examined in consultation with elected representatives and civil society members.
Deputy Commissioner Anantnag will assess the available options and help finalise the location. One possibility under consideration is the existing Deputy Commissioner’s office premises. However, selecting that site would require alternative arrangements for government offices during construction.
Earlier, Omar Abdullah chaired a review meeting to assess the progress of developmental works and ongoing projects in the district. He also laid foundation stones and inaugurated various projects worth approximately ₹52 crore.
