Poonch, November 13,2026- Ahead of the approaching winter season, Block Medical Officer (BMO) Mandi conducted an inspection of Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and other healthcare facilities in the remote Loran area of Poonch district to assess their preparedness for the challenges posed by harsh weather conditions.
The visit focused on reviewing the availability of essential medicines, deployment of medical staff, heating arrangements and emergency healthcare services to ensure that residents continue to receive uninterrupted medical assistance during the winter months.
During the inspection, the BMO reviewed the functioning of healthcare institutions and assessed whether the necessary facilities were in place to address the medical needs of people living in remote and snow-affected areas. Special attention was given to the availability of essential medicines and other medical supplies so that patients do not face difficulties in accessing treatment during periods of heavy snowfall or adverse weather.
The availability of medical personnel was also reviewed to ensure that healthcare facilities remain functional and capable of responding to routine and emergency medical requirements. Adequate staffing is particularly important in remote areas such as Loran, where difficult road conditions during winter can affect people’s access to healthcare services.
Heating arrangements at healthcare centres were another key aspect of the inspection. Ensuring adequate heating facilities is essential for maintaining a suitable environment for patients, healthcare workers and medical staff during extremely cold weather.
The inspection also covered the readiness of emergency services to handle medical situations during severe winter conditions. Ensuring timely medical response, particularly for patients requiring urgent treatment, remains a priority in areas where transportation and connectivity may be affected by snowfall.
The BMO emphasised the importance of maintaining proper coordination among healthcare staff and ensuring that all necessary arrangements are completed well before the onset of severe winter weather.
Remote areas of Poonch, including Loran, often face accessibility challenges during the winter season due to low temperatures, snowfall and difficult road conditions. Such circumstances can create difficulties for patients seeking medical assistance, making advance healthcare preparedness essential.
The inspection forms part of efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery in remote areas and ensure that essential medical services remain accessible to the local population throughout the winter season.
The review also highlighted the importance of maintaining adequate medical supplies, functional heating systems and emergency response arrangements to minimise inconvenience for residents.
With winter approaching, the assessment aims to ensure that healthcare institutions in the region remain prepared to address the medical needs of people, particularly those living in far-flung and vulnerable areas.
Ensuring accessible and reliable healthcare services during harsh weather conditions remains crucial for protecting public health and providing timely medical assistance to communities in remote parts of Jammu and Kashmir.
