Handwara, Oct 20: A major milestone in the healthcare development of north Kashmir is underway with the construction of the Associated Teaching Hospital at Government Medical College (GMC) Handwara. The state-of-the-art facility, being executed by the Roads and Buildings (R&B) Division Handwara at an estimated cost of ₹60 crore, is poised to become one of the most advanced medical infrastructures in the region.
The hospital, designed as a 200-bedded facility, will span a plinth area of 2,500 sqm and a built-up area of around 12,000 sqm, spread over five storeys (G+4). Once completed, it will enhance the healthcare capacity of Handwara to a total of 500 beds, significantly strengthening patient care services across district Kupwara.
According to AEE R&B Division Handwara, Er. Mohd Hussain, the new complex will include four modular operation theatres, seven lecture halls, a modern conference hall, modular wards, doctor-on-duty rooms, HOD offices, and nurse stations, along with an inbuilt canteen. The structure will feature modern lifts, ramps, modular washrooms, and noise-proof windows and doors to ensure a patient-friendly environment.
Despite challenges such as late site handover, limited construction space, uneven terrain, and high traffic flow, the project has recorded remarkable progress. Officially launched in April 2025, the work has already achieved around 30% completion, with the target date for completion set for March 2026.
Meanwhile, Executive Engineer R&B Division Handwara, Farooq Ahmad Shah, emphasized that this project marks a first-of-its-kind modern construction in the district, designed with advanced engineering standards and sound-proof infrastructure.
“The site posed several challenges, from uneven contours and space constraints to traffic congestion, but our team worked tirelessly even in double shifts to keep the work on track,” said Shah. “We are grateful to the district administration, the contractor, and our engineering staff for their dedication. With continued support, we are confident of completing it within the stipulated timeframe.”
Once operational, the Associated Teaching Hospital will not only bolster GMC Handwara’s academic and clinical capabilities but also serve as a regional healthcare hub, addressing the rising patient load from Kupwara district and neighboring areas.
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