Doda MLA Mehraj Malik met Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and reiterated his demand for the establishment of two paramedical colleges in the Doda Assembly Constituency. The meeting also addressed concerns over electricity supply and infrastructure needs in the area.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, the Doda MLA called upon Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and highlighted the need for enhanced medical education facilities in Doda. He raised issues related to electricity supply, including overcharged bills and frequent power cuts by the Power Development Department.
The MLA brought to the notice of the Chief Minister the urgent requirement to strengthen hospitals, higher secondary schools and other educational institutions across the constituency, with particular emphasis on the Sand area. He further requested the reconstruction of major roads and proper maintenance of the existing road network to improve connectivity for residents.
Doda district, located in the Jammu division of Jammu and Kashmir, forms part of the Chenab Valley and is known for its challenging terrain and limited access to higher education and specialised healthcare services. Local representatives have long advocated for better facilities to serve the population, which relies heavily on government institutions for basic needs.
Paramedical education plays a vital role in addressing shortages of trained healthcare professionals in rural and semi-urban areas. The demand for two dedicated colleges in the constituency aligns with broader efforts to expand medical infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir following the establishment of institutions like the Government Medical College in Doda. Such facilities could offer courses in allied health sciences, potentially benefiting hundreds of Chenabi students seeking professional training closer to home.
Power-related grievances remain a persistent challenge in many parts of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly during peak seasons. Malik’s intervention on overcharged bills and outages reflects constituent feedback on the impact of unreliable electricity on daily life, healthcare delivery and education. Reliable power supply is considered essential for the functioning of schools, hospitals and other public services in the region.
Road infrastructure in Doda and surrounding areas often faces difficulties due to hilly topography and weather conditions. Improved connectivity is seen as critical for economic activity, emergency medical access and overall development. The MLA’s request for reconstruction and maintenance underscores the need for sustained investment in basic infrastructure to support local communities.
The meeting between the Doda MLA and the Chief Minister highlights the focus on constituency-specific issues within the Jammu and Kashmir government’s agenda. Omar Abdullah’s administration has prioritised education and health sectors as part of its development initiatives since taking office.
Observers note that demands for paramedical colleges could contribute to reducing the migration of students to larger cities for higher studies and help in building a skilled workforce within the valley. Strengthening existing hospitals and schools would further address gaps in service delivery for residents who often travel long distances for specialised care.
Malik, affiliated with the Aam Aadmi Party, has previously raised similar concerns regarding development in Doda. His latest engagement with the Chief Minister signals continued advocacy on behalf of the constituency. Officials are yet to issue a formal response on the specific demands, but such discussions typically feed into departmental reviews and planning processes.
The Chenab Times News Desk