Kishtwar, 30th May 2026: The persistent shortage of doctors, particularly specialist doctors, in the remote Marwah area of Kishtwar district has once again come under the spotlight after a pregnant woman was allegedly forced to undertake a long and difficult journey to seek medical treatment outside the region.
According to local residents, Shaista Begum, wife of Nasir Hussain Lone and a resident of Dherna Marwah, required urgent medical attention and was initially taken to the health facility at Nawapchi, located around 20–25 kilometres from her village. However, to the disappointment of her family, no doctor was reportedly available at the health institution.
With no gynaecologist or adequate medical care available in the area, the family was left with no option but to shift the patient to Government Medical College, Anantnag, a journey of nearly 120 kilometres from Marwah. The route passes through the rugged mountainous terrain of Margan Pass, which remains partially snow-covered and poses considerable risks for patients, especially pregnant women.
The incident sparked concern among residents of Dherna and adjoining areas, who alleged that the absence of specialist doctors, particularly gynaecologists, has become a recurring issue in Marwah. Locals said that despite repeated demands, healthcare facilities in the region continue to suffer from staff shortages, forcing patients to travel long distances for treatment.
Residents urged the Health Department and district administration to immediately address the shortage of doctors and ensure the deployment of a gynaecologist in Marwah so that patients, especially expecting mothers, are not compelled to undertake hazardous journeys during medical emergencies.
The locals warned that if adequate healthcare facilities are not provided in the remote area, public resentment is likely to grow further, putting the lives of residents at continued risk.
