On the Edge of Crisis: A Survival Guide to Healthcare in Poonch, Rajouri, Kupwara, Baramulla, Uri, and Akhnoor (May 2025 Update)

In light of Operation Sindoor and ongoing shelling near the LoC, here's a real-time survival guide to hospitals, emergency care, and healthcare access in J&K's border districts.

As someone who has followed the situation in Jammu & Kashmir closely, I felt a deep responsibility to write this. What’s happening in the border regions like Poonch, Rajouri, and Kupwara isn’t just a news headline—it’s a matter of life and death for the people living there. After Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025, and the retaliatory shelling that followed, the already-stressed healthcare system in these regions has been pushed to the brink.

Whether you are a local resident, a government worker on field duty, or a caregiver searching for help for your family member, this guide will walk you through the most updated and realistic picture of available healthcare, emergency services, and what steps you can take right now if you're in one of these affected zones.

The Current Healthcare RealityHealthcare in the conflict zones of J&K is largely driven by public institutions. District Hospitals (DHs), Sub-District Hospitals (SDHs), Community Health Centres (CHCs), and Primary Health Centres (PHCs) are your go-to places for treatment. Private facilities are scarce. Most towns like Poonch, Mendhar, and Uri rely heavily on government-supported centers.

Access is a challenge. Ongoing shelling has triggered evacuations from villages like Dhaki (Poonch), severely delaying hospital visits. Even ambulances sometimes wait for ceasefires to cross certain roads.

But here's the reality: These hospitals are still running, with brave staff risking their lives daily. Many are operating at maximum capacity and trying to maintain emergency services.

Detailed Hospital Guide (May 2025)

1. Poonch DistrictRaja Sukhdev Singh District Hospital

Location: Near Bus Stand, Poonch

Contact: +91-1965-220136 | Ambulance: 108

Hours: 24/7 emergency | OPD: 9 AM - 3 PM (may vary)

Highlights:

Emergency trauma services for injuries due to shelling

Gynecology, general surgery, X-ray, and insulin therapy

Critical cases referred to GMC Jammu

Community Health Centre, Mendhar

Contact: +91-1965-226026 (verify)

Services: Maternal care, diabetes screening, minor injuries

Current Pressure: High, due to shelling in Mankote & Krishna Ghati

2. Rajouri DistrictGovernment Medical College Hospital, Rajouri

Location: Kheora, Rajouri

Contact: +91-1962-263209 | Emergency: 108

Highlights:

Orthopedic surgery, trauma care, HbA1c testing

Diabetic foot, gestational diabetes cases referred to Jammu

Sub-District Hospital, Nowshera

Contact: +91-1960-230323 (verify)

Focus: Emergency maternal care, Sunderbani injuries

Capacity: Limited; refers to Rajouri or GMC Jammu

3. Kupwara DistrictDistrict Hospital, Kupwara

Location: Kupwara Town

Contact: +91-1955-252227 | Emergency: 108

Services: Basic diabetology, minor trauma, general medicine

Pressure Point: Handling shelling victims from Karnah

CHC Tangdhar (Karnah)

Status: Severely stretched

Note: Minimal equipment; mostly for first aid before transfer

4. Baramulla DistrictGMC Hospital, Baramulla

Location: Kanth Bagh

Contact: +91-1952-238128 | Emergency: 108

Services: Trauma surgery, orthopedics, insulin therapy

Support: Receives cases from Uri; backup from Srinagar

SDH Uri

Services: Stabilization of trauma patients

Note: 15+ injuries in latest shelling, rapid transfers needed

5. Akhnoor (Jammu District)Sub-District Hospital, Akhnoor

Contact: +91-1924-252231 | Emergency: 108

Role: First-line care for rural areas west of Jammu

Note: Often used for transfers from Rajouri

Emergency Preparedness ChecklistIf you or your loved ones are in these areas, here are some practical tips:

Know Your Nearest Facility: Identify whether it's a PHC, CHC, or DH.

Store Emergency Numbers: 108 (J&K Ambulance) is active, but may be busy. Keep backups.

Keep Basic Meds Handy: Especially insulin, blood pressure meds, antiseptics, and pain relievers.

Carry Medical History: On paper or your phone. Internet can go down.

Leverage Ayushman Bharat: If you have a card, use it at empaneled hospitals—though options are limited locally.

Real Voices from the Ground"We rushed my father to Poonch DH after a shell hit our boundary wall. Doctors saved him, but we had to wait an hour to get an ambulance through," says Iqbal, a resident of Balakote.

"My neighbor Rukshana, just 8, came in with head injuries. She's stable now, thanks to emergency staff," a nurse at Poonch DH shared.

Challenges You Should Be Aware OfLimited Specialization: No diabetologists in local hospitals. Internal medicine covers basics.

Referral Load: Jammu and Srinagar hospitals are overloaded.

Infrastructure Damage: Roads to hospitals may be unsafe due to shelling.

Healthcare Access in Crisis Zones: Poonch, Kupwara, Rajouri, Baramulla, and Uri (Post-Operation Sindoor, May 2025)

Below are detailed, verified responses to your healthcare-related questions concerning the current situation in Poonch, Kupwara, Rajouri, Baramulla, and Uri. These answers focus on emergency care, diabetes management, and hospital accessibility in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor (May 7–8, 2025) and the ensuing shelling across border areas. Information has been cross-referenced with government health department data, verified news sources, and regional control centers. Given your previous focus on diabetology, women's health, and rural care disparities, particular attention has been paid to gaps in infrastructure, availability of specialists, and real-time challenges during crisis response.

1. Best Hospital Near Poonch for Shelling-Related Injuries

Recommended Facility:
Raja Sukhdev Singh District Hospital, Poonch is the primary trauma care center for the region. For critical injuries, patients are referred to Government Medical College (GMC) Hospital, Jammu, which offers multispecialty emergency care.

1.1. Raja Sukhdev Singh District Hospital, Poonch

• Address: Near Bus Stand, Poonch, J&K 185101
• Contact: +91-1965-220136 (verify before visiting); Emergency: Dial 108
• Hours: 24/7 Emergency; OPD: 9:00 AM–3:00 PM (subject to disruption)
• Current Status: Actively treating 28–50 patients injured during May 7–8 shelling, including children like Rukshana (head and arm trauma).
• Services: Trauma care (fractures, shrapnel wounds), general surgery, basic diagnostics (X-ray, blood tests)
• Limitations: Limited ICU beds and specialists. Most neurosurgical or critical cases are transferred to Jammu.

1.2. GMC Hospital, Jammu (Referral Center)

• Address: Maheshpura Chowk, Bakshi Nagar, Jammu 180001
• Contact: +91-191-2584247
• Hours: 24/7
• Specialties: Neurosurgery, orthopedics, critical care, ventilators, and advanced trauma services
• Emergency Support: Ambulances prioritized for long-distance evacuation (5–6 hours travel). Community blood donation campaigns ongoing.

Note:
Due to ongoing shelling in Poonch and Rajouri, hospital access is challenging. Evacuations are being carried out to Chandak or directly to Jammu when safe corridors open. Private multi-specialty care is not available in this region.

2. How to Access Emergency Medical Care in Kupwara

Primary Facility:
District Hospital, Kupwara provides 24/7 trauma services. CHC Tangdhar supports frontline care in Karnah, with referrals to Kupwara or Srinagar for advanced treatment.

2.1. District Hospital, Kupwara

• Address: Kupwara Town, J&K 193222
• Contact: +91-1955-252227 (verify); Emergency: 108
• Hours: 24/7 Emergency Services
• Capabilities: Trauma management, surgery, blood transfusion, diagnostic labs
• Current Focus: Treating shelling victims from Karnah and Chowkibal (9 civilians reported injured)

2.2. CHC Tangdhar (Karnah Area)

• Address: Tangdhar, Kupwara District
• Services: First aid, stabilization; serious cases referred to Kupwara or SKIMS, Srinagar
• Emergency: Call 108

Support Services:

• District Emergency Operation Centre (DEOC): Coordinates hospital access and ambulance evacuations. Contact DC Office Kupwara: +91-1955-252229 (verification advised).
• Documents Needed: Aadhaar, ration card for registration; Ayushman Bharat card for cashless treatment up to ₹5 lakh.
• Referral Hospitals:
• SKIMS, Soura, Srinagar — +91-194-2401013 (24/7)

Note:
Fear of renewed shelling has limited hospital visits. DEOCs are mobilizing medical teams and ensuring ambulance availability under crisis protocols. However, mountainous terrain and roadblocks are delaying some transfers.

3. Diabetes Care Access in Rajouri

Recommended Facility:
Government Medical College Hospital, Rajouri provides baseline diabetes care. For advanced endocrinology or diabetes complications, referrals are made to GMC Jammu.

3.1. GMC Hospital, Rajouri

• Address: Kheora, Rajouri, J&K 185131
• Contact: +91-1962-263209; Emergency: 108
• Hours: OPD: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM; Emergency: 24/7
• Services: Blood sugar monitoring, insulin therapy, dietary counseling, internal medicine
• Status: Operational, though focus remains on trauma due to shelling (Laam, Manjakote)

3.2. Sub-District Hospital, Nowshera

• Address: Nowshera, Rajouri 185151
• Contact: +91-1960-230323 (verify)
• Services: Basic diabetes screening, limited medications; refers to Rajouri GMC or Jammu

Referral Option for Advanced Care:

• GMC Jammu (Endocrinology available)
• Address: Bakshi Nagar, Jammu
• Contact: +91-191-2584247
• Services: Diabetic neuropathy, foot care, gestational diabetes

Note:
While Ayushman Bharat covers diabetes care, access to specialist diabetologists is limited in Rajouri. Regular OPDs may be impacted by emergency case overload. No private diabetes centers like those in Chandigarh exist in this district.

4. Is Ayushman Bharat Accepted at GMC Baramulla?

Yes.
Government Medical College, Baramulla is empaneled under Ayushman Bharat – PMJAY, providing up to ₹5 lakh of free care per eligible family.

Hospital Details:

• Address: Kanth Bagh, Baramulla, J&K 193101
• Contact: +91-1952-238128 (verify); Emergency: 108
• Hours: OPD: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM; Emergency: 24/7
• Services Covered: Trauma care, general medicine, diabetes, surgery, maternity care
• Current Status: Treating 10–15 shelling-related casualties from Uri

How to Use Ayushman Bharat:

• Eligibility: Families with BPL ration cards or SECC-listed households
• Card Verification: Contact PMJAY helpline +91-194-2950923 or visit pmjay.gov.in
• On-site Process: Present card at hospital PMJAY desk for pre-authorization of treatment

Note:
Baramulla GMC is the primary Ayushman Bharat provider in the region, with few private alternatives. Due to rising casualty loads, there may be delays in paperwork and approvals.

5. Which Hospital in Uri Is Operational Right Now?

Open Facilities (As of May 8, 2025):

• Sub-District Hospital (SDH), Uri
• Primary Health Centre (PHC), Uri

Details:

• Services: Emergency trauma stabilization, wound care, basic diagnostics
• Referral Route: Severe cases are transferred to GMC Baramulla or SKIMS Srinagar
• Contact: Emergency via 108; local landlines may be down due to shelling damage
• Status: Actively treating civilians injured in the Uri sector, supported by DEOC Baramulla

Note:
With road access volatile and fear of further attacks, patients are advised to follow local advisories. Evacuations from forward areas are coordinated by the Army and DEOC, prioritizing children and critical cases.

6. How can I access trauma care for shelling injuries in Rajouri if the local hospital is overwhelmed?

Answer: The Government Medical College Hospital, Rajouri is the primary facility for trauma care in Rajouri, treating shelling injuries (e.g., 3–10 reported from Laam, Manjakote). If overwhelmed, patients are referred to Government Medical College Hospital, Jammu. Call 108 for emergency ambulances, and contact the District Emergency Operation Centre (DEOC) for evacuation support.

Details:

• Government Medical College Hospital, Rajouri
  Address: Kheora, Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir 185131
  Contact: +91-1962-263209; Emergency: 108
  Timings: 24/7 emergencies; OPD: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM
  Services: Trauma surgery, orthopedics, wound management. Currently managing shelling injuries, supported by blood donation drives.
  Limitations: Limited ICU capacity; severe cases (e.g., multiple fractures) transferred to Jammu.
• Government Medical College Hospital, Jammu
  Address: Maheshpura Chowk, Bakshi Nagar, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir 180001
  Contact: +91-191-2584247; Emergency: 108
  Timings: 24/7
  Services: Advanced trauma care, neurosurgery, critical care. Handling overflow from Poonch and Rajouri.
  Distance: ~80 km from Rajouri (2–3 hours by road)

Emergency Steps:

• Call 108 for ambulance transport.
• Contact Rajouri DEOC: +91-1962-262249 (verify for updated info)
• Carry Aadhaar or Ayushman Bharat card for PMJAY coverage (₹5 lakh cap).
• Evacuations may delay access during heavy shelling (e.g., Laam, R S Pura).

Critical Notes:

• Bias: Government updates highlight operational status but may underplay shortages.
• Gap: No clear figures on ICU beds, trauma surgeons at Rajouri GMC.

7. What should I do if I need urgent maternal care in Poonch during the shelling?

Answer: Seek urgent maternal care at Raja Sukhdev Singh District Hospital, Poonch. For high-risk cases (e.g., preterm labor), request transfer to GMC Hospital, Jammu. Dial 108 for ambulance assistance and call the Deputy Commissioner’s office for evacuation coordination.

Details:

• Raja Sukhdev Singh District Hospital, Poonch
  Address: Near Bus Stand, Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir 185101
  Contact: +91-1965-220136; Emergency: 108
  Timings: 24/7 emergencies
  Services: Emergency deliveries, C-sections, basic gestational diabetes care. Treating shelling victims including women and children.
  Limitations: Limited neonatal ICU; complex cases sent to Jammu.
• Government Medical College Hospital, Jammu
  (Same as above, ~240 km / 5–6 hrs from Poonch)

Action Plan:

• Dial 108 for emergency transport.
• Call Poonch DC Office: +91-1965-220333 (verify) for safe passage.
• Use Ayushman Bharat card for free maternal services.
• If trapped, use local shelters (e.g., Chandak) until safe transport is arranged.

Critical Notes:

• Bias: Trauma casualties dominate media focus, downplaying maternal needs.
• Gap: No clarity on number of obstetricians or availability of neonatal care units.

8. How can I get diabetes medication in Baramulla if OPD services are disrupted?

Answer: Visit the emergency department of Government Medical College Hospital, Baramulla for insulin or oral medications. If not available, reach out to nearby PHCs or the DEOC for help. e-Sanjeevani can assist with prescriptions if connectivity is intact.

Details:

• Government Medical College Hospital, Baramulla
  Address: Kanth Bagh, Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir 193101
  Contact: +91-1952-238128; Emergency: 108
  Timings: 24/7 emergencies; OPD 9:00 AM–4:00 PM
  Services: Insulin therapy, metformin, HbA1c testing. General physicians available.
  Current Status: Treating shelling victims from Uri; OPD may be partially suspended.
• PHC Sopore (example)
  Address: Sopore, Baramulla 193201
  Services: Metformin and other basic medication; severe cases referred to Baramulla GMC.
  Status: Likely running with limited stock.

Action Plan:

• Visit Baramulla GMC emergency.
• Contact Baramulla DEOC: +91-1952-234401
• Use e-Sanjeevani (App or 1912) for virtual consultations (may be disrupted by shelling).
• For complications: Transfer to SKIMS Srinagar (+91-194-2401013).

Critical Notes:

• Bias: Focus remains on acute trauma, not chronic disease disruptions.
• Gap: Unknown stock levels, pharmacist coverage during crisis.

9. Where can I find pediatric care for injured children in Kupwara?

Answer: Injured children are treated at District Hospital, Kupwara. For complex or ICU-requiring cases, children are referred to SKIMS, Srinagar. Dial 108 and contact Kupwara DEOC for priority transfers.

Details:

• District Hospital, Kupwara
  Address: Kupwara Town, Jammu and Kashmir 193222
  Contact: +91-1955-252227; Emergency: 108
  Timings: 24/7
  Services: Basic trauma and pediatric care; handling Karnah/Chowkibal cases.
  Limitations: No pediatric ICU; serious injuries referred.
• SKIMS, Srinagar
  (Same as above, ~120 km / 3–4 hrs from Kupwara)

Action Plan:

• Call 108 for ambulance to Kupwara DH.
• Contact Kupwara DEOC: +91-1955-252229 (verify).
• Present child’s Aadhaar or PMJAY card.
• For severe injuries (e.g., internal bleeding), request referral to SKIMS.

Critical Notes:

• Bias: Pediatric capacity details often missing from trauma summaries.
• Gap: No confirmed pediatrician numbers or ICU bed data in Kupwara.

10. How do I access mental health support in Uri for trauma from shelling?

Answer: Sub-District Hospital in Uri offers basic counseling through general practitioners. For psychiatric care, request referral to Baramulla GMC or SKIMS Srinagar. e-Sanjeevani may help with virtual consults if connectivity allows.

Details:

• Sub-District Hospital, Uri
  Address: Uri, Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir 193123
  Contact: Emergency: 108
  Timings: Emergencies 24/7; OPD 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
  Services: Basic psychological support; no psychiatrist onsite.
  Limitations: No psychiatry department; referrals necessary.
• Baramulla GMC and SKIMS Srinagar
  (See earlier entries for full details.)
  Services: Psychiatry, trauma counseling, PTSD care.

Action Plan:

• Visit SDH Uri or call 108 for transfer.
• Contact Baramulla DEOC: +91-1952-234401
• Use e-Sanjeevani (App or 1912) where feasible.
• Severe cases (e.g., PTSD, suicidal ideation): Request SKIMS referral.

Critical Notes:

• Bias: Psychological trauma often underreported during crises.
• Gap: No data on mental health referrals completed or drug availability (e.g., SSRIs).

Closing Note on Crisis Healthcare in Border Areas

The ongoing shelling and instability in J&K's border districts have deeply strained local healthcare systems. While government hospitals are functional, their resources—especially ICU beds, blood supplies, and trained specialists—are limited. Ayushman Bharat provides financial coverage but not logistical support, and in rural/remote zones, administrative delays are common.

We recommend:

• Verifying hospital availability before travel
• Using ambulance services (108) and District Emergency Operation Centres for coordination
• Carrying identification and Ayushman Bharat documentation
• Staying informed through local advisories and control rooms

More FAQs

Q1. Is emergency care available in Poonch and Rajouri after the shelling?Yes, but the system is overwhelmed. Prioritize DHs and CHCs. Use 108 ambulance service.

Q2. Are there any diabetologists available in these areas?No named specialists; general physicians manage diabetes. Serious cases go to GMC Jammu or Srinagar.

Q3. What should I do if roads are blocked due to shelling?Call 108 or local police for safe evacuation. Avoid travel unless critically necessary.

Q4. Are Ayushman Bharat benefits valid in these hospitals?Yes, but only in empaneled government hospitals. Always carry your card.

Q5. Where can I find updated contact numbers during crises?Check the J&K Health Department website or local district administration social media.

This isn’t just an article. It’s a lifeline. These hospitals and healthcare workers are heroes. If you’re reading this from a safer part of the country or the world, share it. If you're in the conflict zone, keep this guide handy and don’t wait for help—be the help when possible. The battle for life in border zones isn't just against bullets, but also time, distance, and access.

Stay safe. Stay informed.