‘We shoulder patients in snow’: Mundian health centre cries for modernisation

Kupwara, Dec 10: Despite being established 52 years ago, the First Aid Centre at Mundian in Keran remains a basic health outpost, prompting mounting frustration among locals who say the institution has failed to keep pace with the region’s evolving healthcare needs.

Residents lament that the centre, established in 1973, continues to operate without proper infrastructure, staff, or diagnostic support, leaving thousands dependent on distant hospitals for even minor treatment.

Locals said that in case of emergencies, patients often have to be rushed to NTPHC Keran or Sub-District Hospital Kralpora, a journey they described as time–consuming and risky, particularly during winter months when snowfall cuts off road connectivity. “During heavy snow, we literally have to shoulder patients for kilometres. A single health emergency feels like a battle,” said resident Mohammad Syed, urging authorities to upgrade the centre to at least a Primary Health-level facility.

Residents claim that the Mundian centre lacks essential equipment, a dedicated medical officer, and even basic services. “There is no doctor available regularly. The building exists, but the facility is barely functional,” another local said, adding that patients with treatable conditions are forced to travel long distances due to the centre’s limitations.

People in the area have appealed for posting a full-time doctor, improved staff strength, and minimum critical equipment until long-term upgradation is sanctioned. They said better health services could significantly reduce medical risks and improve emergency response in the far-flung border region.

Seeking government attention, locals have urged MLA Trehgam Mir Saifullah and the Health Department to take immediate steps to strengthen the healthcare setup, saying the issue has persisted for decades without concrete action.

Residents hope that the long-pending demand will finally be addressed, giving Mundian access to reliable healthcare after half a century of waiting.