GMC Rajouri to get much-awaited MRI machine

Rajouri, Sep 12: In a major boost to healthcare infrastructure in Rajouri district, the Jammu and Kashmir Medical Supplies Corporation Ltd. (JKMSCL) has formally sanctioned funds for the procurement and installation of a 1.5 Tesla MRI machine at Government Medical College (GMC) Rajouri.

According to an official communication addressed to the Principal/Dean of GMC Rajouri, the Administrative Department has allocated funds under “Machinery & Equipments” for the project. The medical college has been asked to confirm site readiness to facilitate the process.

The MRI machine, a Philips Ingenia Ambition-X model, carries an estimated cost of rupees 12.35 crore, with rupees 1.48 crore in taxes. Turnkey works for site development and installation are valued at over rupees 2.29 crore, bringing the total allocation—including 5 percent administrative charges—to rupees 17.98 crore.

The JKMSCL has circulated copies of the communication to its Financial Advisor, General Manager (Administration), and Nodal Officer GMC Rajouri, ensuring coordination for the project.

Officials say the allocation reflects the government’s push to strengthen diagnostic facilities in border districts. Local residents and medical professionals have long demanded advanced diagnostic services at GMC Rajouri, citing frequent patient referrals to distant hospitals due to the absence of MRI facilities.

Principal GMC Rajouri, Dr. Amarjeet Singh Bhatia, described the MRI as “much needed equipment” for the institution. “The Government has finally sanctioned it after all codal formalities and procedures were completed by the GMC Rajouri administration,” Dr. Bhatia said. He added, “Hundreds of people are being referred from Rajouri to GMC Jammu and other tertiary care hospitals for MRI, which poses a severe burden on poor patients and their families. This practice will end after installation of this MRI.”