In the wake of seven tragic deaths due to an unidentified health illness in two families from Budhal village, Ministers Sakina Itoo (Health, Medical Education, Social Welfare, and Education) and Javed Ahmed Rana (Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment, and Tribal Affairs) visited Sub-Division Kotranka to review the situation and assess ongoing measures.
The Ministers chaired a detailed review meeting attended by senior officers, including Secretary, Health & Medical Education, Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah.
Immediate Interventions
Minister Sakina Itoo stressed the urgency of strengthening health systems, expediting forensic lab results, and testing food and milk samples. She directed:
- The deployment of a team of doctors to remain stationed in Kotranka.
- Establishing an MRI facility in Kotranka to improve diagnostic capabilities.
Minister Javed Rana emphasized water quality testing in adjacent areas and announced two mobile medical units for Rajouri and Poonch districts. These units, costing approximately Rs. 1 crore each, are equipped to deliver healthcare services, including preventive care, diagnostics, and treatment.
Long-Term Solutions
Minister Rana also directed Forest officials to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for water conservation through check dam construction to address long-term water management challenges.
A central team comprising experts from NCDC, PGIMER Chandigarh, and ICMR is enroute to Rajouri to assist in the investigation and provide technical support.
Support for Affected Families
Both Ministers reiterated the government’s commitment to providing necessary facilities and support to affected families and communities. MLA Budhal, Javed Iqbal Choudhary, appreciated the district administration’s efforts.
District Administration’s Role
Secretary Health Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah briefed the meeting on interventions such as rapid response team deployment, ensuring drug and ambulance availability, and setting up isolation wards at GMC Rajouri, Jammu, and SMGS Hospital.
Deputy Commissioner Rajouri, Abhishek Sharma, provided a detailed presentation outlining the timeline of events, spot maps, and objectives. The meeting was attended by SSP Rajouri, Gaurav Sikarwar; ADDC Rajouri, Dr. Raj Kumar Thapa; Director Health Services Jammu, Dr. Rakesh Mangotra; Principal GMC Rajouri, AS Bhatia; Medical Superintendent Shamim Ahmed; CMO Rajouri, Manohar Rana, and other district officers.
