Doda, Jammu and Kashmir, May 7, 2025 – In a major boost to healthcare infrastructure in Doda, the In-Patient Department at Trauma Hospital Khellani has doubled its capacity from 3 to 6 beds, strengthening patient care and reducing the need for referrals to distant medical facilities. The expansion, led by Block Medical Officer Assar Dr. Syed Mohd Ismail under the guidance of Chief Medical Officer Doda Dr. Om Kumar, marks a significant milestone in improving public health services in the district.
The upgraded IPD facility at Trauma Hospital Khellani addresses the pressing need for enhanced inpatient care in Doda, a region challenged by its mountainous terrain and limited medical resources. With the addition of three beds, the hospital can now accommodate more patients requiring trauma care, emergency treatment, and post-operative recovery, ensuring timely interventions for critical cases. Dr. Syed Mohd Ismail noted that the expansion will enable the hospital to manage more patients locally, sparing families the burden of traveling to Jammu or other urban centers for treatment.
Dr. Om Kumar, overseeing the initiative, emphasized that the expanded IPD will improve clinical outcomes while alleviating the financial and logistical challenges of referrals. This effort aligns with the Directorate of Health Services, Jammu, under Dr. Rakesh Mangotra, which has prioritized strengthening rural healthcare in border districts like Doda. Recent programs, such as Outreach Mega MMU camps in remote areas like Nanga Thub, reflect a commitment to equitable healthcare access across the region.
The expansion has sparked positive reactions online, with posts commending the administration’s focus on upgrading healthcare facilities. Users highlighted the potential for lower referral rates and faster emergency response, though these sentiments remain unverified. Residents of Assar and nearby areas have expressed relief, citing the hospital’s critical role in addressing trauma cases, particularly given Doda’s accident-prone roads and rugged landscape.
The upgrade at Trauma Hospital Khellani complements broader efforts to enhance Jammu and Kashmir’s healthcare system, especially in regions near the Line of Control , where reliable medical facilities are vital amid cross-border tensions. It aligns with initiatives like the establishment of shelter camps in Poonch for LoC evacuees, reflecting a focus on both security and welfare. Environmentalists urge that such developments respect the ecological balance of the Chenab Valley, while healthcare advocates call for ongoing investments in medical staff and equipment to sustain the IPD’s impact.
By bolstering Trauma Hospital Khellani, the Doda administration is reinforcing its commitment to healthcare equity, positioning the facility as a lifeline for residents and a model for rural healthcare advancement.
