Union and J&K governments examine proposal for Bandipora trauma hospital
The proposed facility at Ajas is being reviewed by the Union Health Ministry and the Jammu and Kashmir government following local demands.
The Union Health Ministry and the Jammu and Kashmir government are both examining a proposal for a dedicated district trauma hospital at Ajas in Bandipora, according to Greater Kashmir.
The push for the facility follows the death of a pregnant woman and her baby in Gurez, which highlighted healthcare deficits in north Kashmir.
Sonawari MLA Hilal Akbar Lone wrote to J&K Health and Medical Education Minister Sakeena Masood (Itoo) on 30 July 2026, stating that the Srinagar-Sumbal-Bandipora-Gurez road sees heavy civilian and military traffic. Lone said the lack of specialised trauma care leads to the avoidable loss of lives due to frequent accidents in the difficult terrain.
Following the MLA's intervention, the J&K Health and Medical Education Department directed the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir (DHSK) on 11 August 2026 to provide a feasibility report. The DHSK then directed the Bandipora Chief Medical Officer (CMO) on 27 August 2026 to prepare a detailed report.
On 25 September 2026, the Tehsil Social Welfare Committee (TWC) Ajas submitted a petition to the Lok Sabha. Baramulla MP Sheikh Abdul Rashid endorsed the petition that same day, requesting the central health ministry to conduct a feasibility assessment regarding land, infrastructure and connectivity.
Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda confirmed on 16 October 2026 that his division is officially examining the matter. However, Bandipora CMO Bhajan Kour told Greater Kashmir she has not yet received formal communication from higher authorities.