Locals demand Neurosurgery department at GMC Rajouri

Rajouri, Nov 5: Residents of the Pir Panjal region have appealed to the Government to establish a Neurosurgery Department at Government Medical College (GMC) Rajouri, citing increasing difficulties faced by patients suffering from head injuries and neurological ailments.

Ajaz Ahmed, a local from Rajouri, said that neurosurgery is one of the most vital and advanced branches of medicine in present times, yet its absence in GMC Rajouri is causing immense hardships to the local population.

“Patients with head injuries, trauma cases, or neurological disorders are being referred to Jammu or other specialized hospitals, which delays treatment and puts a financial strain on poor families,” he said.

Javid Ahmed, a resident of Mendhar, expressed similar concern, saying that the lack of a Neurosurgery Department often proves life-threatening in critical cases.

“Several vital departments are missing in GMC Rajouri, but the need for neurosurgery is most urgent. The government should take immediate steps to establish it to facilitate patients from across the Pir Panjal region,” he added.

Incharge Principal GMC Rajouri, Dr A S Bhatia recently informed that about 99 percent of patients referred to Jammu for neurosurgical consultation would return only after consultation, without undergoing any major procedure.

Locals believe that such a high referral rate can be checked if a fully functional Neurosurgery Department is established at GMC Rajouri, ensuring timely treatment and reducing the burden on patients who currently have to travel long distances for specialized care.