Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, May 8: In the wake of intense cross-border shelling that has resulted in over a dozen civilian deaths and injured approximately 100 others along the Line of Control (LoC), hospitals across Jammu and Kashmir are on high alert to manage any further escalation of the conflict.
An official from the Health and Medical Education (H&ME) Department informed that the health infrastructure is fully prepared to handle emergencies.
Eight districts—three in Kashmir and five in Jammu—bordering Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), are considered most vulnerable to injuries, and all necessary facilities have been activated to ensure timely treatment for the injured.
The government Medical College (GMC) Hospital Jammu, a leading healthcare institution in the region, said it is ready to manage medical emergencies arising from ongoing border tensions.
“We are equipped to respond to any situation. Mini ICUs with ventilators and monitors are operational, and we have sufficient stocks of medicines,” said an official at GMC Jammu.
The hospital has prepared over 200 beds, with medical teams and logistical support staff on standby to provide 24/7 care, especially for those affected by shelling incidents. Authorities have also issued alerts to health facilities in border districts such as Rajouri, Poonch, Kathua, and Samba, urging vigilance and preparedness. Similar instructions have been disseminated in districts across north Kashmir.
The shelling, which began early Wednesday, was reportedly a retaliatory strike by Indian forces targeting nine terror infrastructure sites in Pakistan and PoK. This military action was in response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in 26 civilian deaths.
Poonch district has borne the brunt of Wednesday’s shelling. Many homes have been damaged, and residents are relocating to safer areas.
Health authorities have assured the public that all necessary arrangements are in place to handle any emergencies. “From blood banks to trauma units, everything is ready. We have coordinated with district hospitals to ensure efficient patient management,” officials said.
An official at GMC Rajouri said the hospital remains alert, as cases from road accidents and other emergencies continue daily. However, given the heightened shelling impact on Poonch and Rajouri, they are especially vigilant this time.
Hospitals also said adequate stocks of medicines and blood supplies are available across all blood banks. They have called on volunteers to step forward and donate blood voluntarily, to ensure sufficient reserves in case of emergencies.
Meanwhile, authorities continue to monitor the border situation closely, as fears of further escalation persist. The Jammu and Kashmir administration has urged residents in vulnerable areas to follow safety advisories and cooperate with emergency services to ensure safety and preparedness.
