SRINAGAR: People's Democratic Party Youth President (PDP) Waheed Ur Rehman Parra on Friday has expressed deep concern over the alarming delays in the construction of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Awantipora, South Kashmir. In a statement, Parra emphasized that despite being a project of national importance approved in 2019 with an estimated cost of Rs 1828 crore, the AIIMS Awantipora project remains far from completion, with nearly 50% of the work still pending.
He said that with the January 2025 deadline looming, it is evident that this vital healthcare infrastructure has been grossly neglected. Parra questioned why the government is ignoring this crucial project that is essential for the healthcare needs of the people of Kashmir, calling the situation unacceptable and demanding immediate action and fast-tracked completion. Despite reassurances, I am skeptical about meeting the January 2025 deadline.
He emphasized that the government must prioritize and expedite this project to ensure that the people of Kashmir have access to essential healthcare services.Parra highlighted the stark contrast between the progress of AIIMS Jammu, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister 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.
He said that 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 urged the government to recognize these benefits and work diligently to ensure the project's timely completion.Parra urged the authorities to address and resolve all pending issues swiftly to ensure the project is completed without further delay.
He called upon the government to take immediate and concrete steps to fast-track the completion of AIIMS Awantipora, which is critical for enhancing the healthcare infrastructure in the region. He assured that the PDP stands ready to support any measures that will ensure the project's success and improve the healthcare landscape of Kashmir.He 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. Parra demanded a probe to investigate the reasons behind the delay in the project.
He urged the government to expedite the project's completion to alleviate the suffering of the people due to the lack of treatment options for various diseases. He emphasized that past for the past four years, there has been no headway on finalizing a temporary campus for AIIMS Kashmir or for starting the process of roping in manpower for commencing the classes.
