In a recent social media post, Senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Basant Rath shed light on the distressing conditions faced by students at the Government Medical College (GMC) in Doda. Rath, known for his surprising nature, expressed his concerns about the structural flaws and various challenges plaguing the college, which have significantly impacted the lives of its students.
Referring to a major earthquake that struck the region last month, Rath vividly described how the tremors had exposed the fundamental weaknesses in the architecture of the newly constructed GMC building. The aftermath of the earthquake revealed a series of alarming issues, including broken beakers, fallen tiles, sand-filled ceilings, and substantial cracks in the walls.
Rath recounted his conversation with medical students who, despite the dire circumstances, exhibited remarkable resilience. These students shared videos from their hostel, depicting the ongoing struggles they faced, ranging from the inconvenience of cleaning their rooms to the continued structural hazards caused by subsequent minor earthquakes.
Moreover, Rath highlighted the dismal state of water supply in the area, pointing out the high fluoride content and heavy contamination present in the local water sources. While some households managed to access clean water through purifiers, a majority of the population had to make daily trips to collect water from a spring. The dire conditions painted a stark contrast to the year 2023, where access to safe drinking water should be a basic necessity.
Furthermore, Rath underscored the lack of recreational opportunities and social activities available to the students in the conservative and isolated town. With limited options for entertainment and sports, the students found it increasingly difficult to cope with the academic burden and emotional challenges they faced. Many students, hailing from different states, also experienced homesickness, exacerbating their sense of alienation.
Highlighting the significance of these issues, Rath questioned whether the college administration was doing justice to the efforts put in by the students. He urged authorities to address the operational shortcomings of the institution and emphasized the need for adequate support and infrastructure for medical colleges across the country.
Rath’s observations resonate with the experiences of numerous students who feel trapped in the current environment. Despite studying at a premier medical college, they are confronted with an array of tribulations and a lack of prospects to look forward to.
As Senior IPS officer Basant Rath’s social media post about the living conditions at GMC Doda continues to resonate with readers, the spotlight now turns to the administration’s response. The concerns raised by Rath demand urgent attention and action. It is imperative that the authorities take note of the structural flaws in the college building, the lack of basic amenities, and the emotional well-being of the students. The plight of these young individuals, striving to excel in their medical education, cannot be overlooked. The Chenab Times eagerly awaits the administration’s response and hopes that appropriate measures will be taken to address the issues highlighted by Rath, ensuring a safer and more conducive environment for the students of GMC Doda.
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The Chenab Times News Desk



