Rs 17 Lakh Released for Repair, Renovation of MMCH Zakoora: Health Minister | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: The government has released Rs 17 lakh for the repair and renovation of the Mini Maternity-cum-Child Care Hospital (MMCH) in Zakoora, aimed at improving patient care in the region.

Minister for Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo, informed the House while responding to a Calling Attention Notice moved by Legislator Salman Sagar. She said that during 2023-24, the Director of Health Services, Kashmir, authorized the upgradation of MMCH Zakoora, including internal finishing and allied development works, with an Administrative Approval and Allocation (AAA) of Rs 299.98 lakh granted in July 2022.

“The initial funds of Rs 75 lakh could not be utilized due to non-relocation of the building by security forces,” the Minister added, noting that work execution through the JK Housing Board was delayed because the building remained occupied by security forces in 2019.

She further stated that the building was vacated by the security forces in 2025, requiring repairs and renovation before hospital operations could resume. The project, titled “HMESS2526100050 – Balance Work at MMCH Zakoora Srinagar”, has been approved under the UT Capex Budget 2025-26, with Rs 17 lakh already released.

Itoo added that the PWD (R and B) was tasked with preparing a Detailed Project Report (DPR), initially estimating costs at Rs 10 crore, which was considered high. A revised DPR emphasizing cost-effectiveness has been requested, and the repair and renovation work will commence at the earliest to make the hospital fully operational.