Paisan Shangus residents demand sub-centre building at central location
Locals say existing rented facility is inaccessible for many villages, seek urgent intervention
Anantnag: Residents of Paisan Shangus and adjoining villages in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district have demanded that the new health sub-centre building be constructed at a central location so that people from Paisan, Ahoo, Brisan and nearby habitations can benefit equally.
Locals said that the existing sub-centre is currently functioning from a rented private building, which is located on one side of the area, making it inconvenient for a large section of the population to reach there.
They alleged that due to its poor location and limited infrastructure, the sub-centre has failed to cater to the basic healthcare needs of the people.
“The sub-centre is not centrally located. For people from Ahoo, Brisan and other villages, it becomes very difficult to reach, especially elderly persons, women and children,” said a local resident of Paisan. “Because of this, we are forced to travel to SDH Shangus even for minor ailments.”
Another resident said that the rented building lacks adequate space and facilities. “There is no proper room for patients, no waiting area and limited medical services. A government sub-centre should be accessible to all, not confined to one corner of the area,” he said.
The residents welcomed the government’s decision to construct a new sub-centre building, but stressed that its location would determine whether the project truly benefits the public.
“If the new building is again constructed at a non-central place, the purpose will be defeated. Our suffering will continue,” said a woman from Brisan village.
People said that due to the inadequate functioning of the sub-centre, they are compelled to rush to Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Shangus for even minor treatments, putting additional pressure on the hospital and causing unnecessary hardship to patients. “A properly located and equipped sub-centre can reduce the burden on SDH Shangus and provide timely treatment at the local level,” they added.
Meanwhile, MLA Anantnag East Reyaz Ahmad, who represents the constituency, assured the people that their demand would be taken up on a priority basis.
“I am aware of the concerns raised by the residents regarding the location of the sub-centre. I will look into the matter personally and ensure that the issue is addressed so that maximum people benefit from the facility,” the MLA said.
