CS Emphasizes Increased Workforce and Expedited Completion
PULWAMA , JANUARY 17(BANN): Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo chaired a joint meeting with officials from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Awantipora, Health and Medical Education, PWD, Jal Shakti, and CPWD to accelerate the completion of this critical healthcare project.
The meeting was attended by key officials, including the Executive Director of AIIMS Awantipora, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Secretaries of PWD and Health & Medical Education, Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Chief Engineer CPWD, and the DG Budget, among others.
The Chief Secretary evaluated the progress of infrastructure development and reviewed the timelines for completing various components of the project. He sought details about the current workforce engaged in construction and instructed the implementing agency to significantly increase manpower after the winter season ends.
Additionally, Dulloo examined the water supply scheme and the approach road to the institute. He directed the Jal Shakti Department to finalize the first phase of the water supply scheme, which includes constructing three bore wells and associated infrastructure, by May 2025 to ensure adequate water availability when the hospital becomes operational.
The Chief Secretary also discussed requirements for additional land and future expansions, assuring full administrative support for resolving pending issues. Dr. Sachidananda Mohanty, the Executive Director of AIIMS Awantipora, provided an update on the progress of the project. He reported that approximately 61% of the work on all 57 blocks has been completed.
Dr. Mohanty expressed optimism that the institute would become functional by November 2025.
Officials informed the meeting that cold weather has reduced the workforce from the usual 2,400–2,500 workers to around 850, focusing mainly on internal works during the winter. Construction activities are ongoing on six hospital blocks, four academic blocks, 16 residential blocks, 12 hostel blocks, and additional facilities, including an Ayush block, night shelter, and guest house. The project, once completed, will be a significant milestone in enhancing healthcare services in the region.
