Gynae theatre starts at SDH DH Pora in Kukgam
Locals rejoice as the move is seen as a major relief for women in remote areas
Kulgam: In a significant boost to maternal healthcare in south Kashmir, a dedicated gynaecology (gynae) operation theatre has been made functional at Sub-District Hospital (SDH) DH Pora in Kulgam district, bringing much-needed relief to thousands of women living in far-flung and hilly areas.
Hospital officials said the newly established theatre has begun operations on a limited schedule and will initially function twice a week—every Wednesday and Saturday. However, they assured that efforts are underway to make the facility fully operational on a daily basis once a blood bank is established within the hospital premises.
The development has been widely welcomed by residents, particularly from remote villages who have long struggled due to the absence of surgical maternity services in the area.
“For years, we had to travel to Kulgam town or even Anantnag for deliveries and emergencies, which was extremely difficult, especially during night hours or bad weather,” said a local resident from DH pora area. “Now, with this theatre here, our women will feel safer and more secure.”
Another resident from a remote village in DH Pora said the move would save both time and lives. “Pregnant women often faced complications on the way due to long distances and poor road connectivity. This facility is a blessing for us,” he added.
Healthcare officials said the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen peripheral healthcare institutions and reduce the burden on tertiary hospitals.
“Starting the gynae theatre at SDH DH Pora is a major step towards improving maternal and reproductive healthcare services in this underserved belt. We have begun with two days a week, and once the blood bank is established, the theatre will function daily,” an official said.
Locals have also urged the authorities to expedite the setting up of the blood bank and ensure adequate staffing and equipment so that the hospital can handle all types of obstetric emergencies.
“This is a great beginning, but the government must ensure that all facilities, including specialists and blood storage, are made available at the earliest,” said a local community member.
The operationalisation of the gynae theatre is expected to benefit hundreds of villages in the DH Pora hamlet, many of which are located in difficult terrain, ultimately improving maternal health outcomes and reducing risks associated with delayed medical intervention.
