North Kashmir’s premier hospital still without digital X-ray

Baramulla, Oct 26: While most health institutions across Kashmir have switched to digital X-ray systems, the Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla, the leading healthcare institution in North Kashmir, continues to operate without this essential diagnostic facility.

Patients from Baramulla and surrounding areas have expressed frustration over the lack of a digital X-ray, which often leads to delays in diagnosis, inconvenience, and additional expenses.

Muhammad Ashraf, a civil society member from Baramulla town, said, “It is unfortunate that a premier institution like GMC Baramulla functions without a digital X-ray. Even community health centres now have this facility—how can a top medical college be left behind?”

Another local resident added, “This is the main medical college hospital for the entire North Kashmir region. Such a facility is extremely important. Patients often wait for long hours just for an X-ray, which is unacceptable.”

Locals say the absence of digital diagnostic support not only hampers timely treatment but also undermines the purpose of establishing a medical college in the region.

Health Minister Sakina Itoo had instructed the hospital administration to set up a digital X-ray facility under the broader Healthcare Infrastructure Upgrade Plan 2025–26, which also includes the installation of an MRI machine, a Cath Lab, and other essential equipment. However, no progress has been reported so far.