J&K Budget Session 2026: Health Minister Confirms Four Ambulances Operational at SDH Bijbehara

JAMMU, MARCH 31: During the ongoing Budget Session 2026 of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Minister for Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo, addressed a Calling Attention Motion moved by Legislator Dr. Bashir Ahmad Shah Veeri regarding the adequacy of emergency medical transport in South Kashmir.

The Minister clarified that the distribution of Critical Care Ambulances (CCA), procured via World Bank assistance under the 108-Emergency Services, follows a rigorous assessment of institutional priorities. She emphasized that the allocation process is strategically designed to account for patient volume, geographical terrain, and existing emergency infrastructure to ensure equitable healthcare access across the Union Territory.

Responding specifically to the concerns regarding Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Bijbehara, the Health Minister informed the House that the facility is currently equipped with four functional ambulances, including one dedicated vehicle under the 108-Emergency Service network.

Based on the current service demand and patient load, the Ministry has determined that there is no immediate requirement for additional units at the hospital.

This statement underscores the government’s data-driven approach to resource management within the Health and Medical Education Department, aiming to optimize the 108-Emergency Services for maximum regional coverage without redundant resource allocation.