JAMMU: Bhartiya Janata Party objects to hasty and astonishing decision of the government of the Union territory to shift the GMC Handwara from its present location. Girdhari Lal Raina former MLC and spokesperson of BJP termed the decision as surprising, based more on speculative, impulsive and political considerations than merit of the case. In a communication to the Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir, GL Raina said that the decision taken after a new government assumed charge gives credence to the ‘political vengeance’ feeling of local population as the party in power has lost the electoral battle in the constituencies where the GMC is located.
We are aware that In the year 2019 ,the Central government gave its approval for this new Government Medical College to be attached with District hospital Handwara and was to be set up at a cost of Rs 325 crores under a centrally -sponsored scheme. As reports indicate more than 50% or 170 Crore amount has already been spent. This does not include the environmental cost of felling thousands of trees to clear the area. It is worth mentioning here that 70% of the base construction work is completed, making relocation unnecessary and inefficient, he added.
Recalling that the present site is centrally located, easily accessible to broader and far-flung areas accessible particularly during medical emergencies, is also feasible for smooth transportation of students, staff, and patients, he added further.
He cited local feedback saying ample state land (nearly 400 kanals) has been evacuated for the medical college that will suffice for future constructions ensuring the college's growth and development. That the district hospital Handwara and associated hospitals are in close vicinity of present location, ensuring collaboration and resource sharing adds to the advantage of present.
2024 flood was a natural calamity that occurred after a 32-year gap, affecting the entire Kashmir region and can occur anywhere in any form. Solution lies in creating protective infrastructure not moving from one place to other, GL Raina opined. Demarcating the river Pohru's banks, which have been illegally grabbed, can help widen the river and increase water flow, mitigating future flood risks. Construction of embankments and other measures may prove to be cost effective and judicious protection against future deluges.
Last but not least, the presence of army camps and police stations within 1 km of the site ensures added security and safety. It is therefore urged that no decision to shift the GMC Handwara may be undertaken in haste and the issue may be resolved after carefully evaluating alternatives and measures required to safeguard present premises which was in first instance approved by authorities, not the public, Raina asserted.
