Hospitals in J&K on high alert after Pahalgam terror attack; GMC Jammu withdraws emergency order
After the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, hospitals across Jammu and Kashmir have moved to prepare for any medical emergencies. Two government-run medical colleges—one in Jammu and the other in Baramulla—issued formal advisories, urging staff to stay on high alert. However, one of those directives didn't last long.
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On Friday evening, Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu released a circular instructing all hospital staff to be fully alert and ready.
'In view of the prevailing cross-border tension in the UT of J&K, all staff members are hereby directed to remain alert and ensure complete preparedness to meet any exigencies that may arise at any time,' stated the advisory from the Medical Superintendent of GMCH Jammu.
Agencies
The circular wasn't just about being present. It ordered the Store Officer and Store Keepers to maintain essential medicines, emergency medical equipment, and other critical supplies in a state of readiness. In addition, staff were advised to avoid unnecessary leave and remain within hospital premises during their duty hours.
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A 24x7 control room was also established 'to coordinate all emergency responses', according to the same order. This room was to operate without pause, ensuring fast communication in case of an incident.
GMC Jammu rescinds order within hours
By late night, however, the alert was withdrawn. The hospital walked back the circular in a fresh notice issued by Dr Ashutosh Gupta, Principal and Dean, GMC Jammu.
'The circular issued by Medical Superintendent GMCH Jammu vide endorsement number GMCH/2025/812-17 dated 25-04-2025 is withdrawn ab initio with immediate effect,' Gupta stated.
Agencies
The rollback has not been explained officially. But it came just hours after the original alert had set emergency protocols into motion.
GMC Baramulla maintains high alert
Meanwhile, Government Medical College Baramulla issued a similar advisory, but unlike its Jammu counterpart, the hospital held its ground.
Heads of departments were instructed to review their respective areas for readiness. Special focus was placed on critical units like the emergency department and the blood centre.
'It is hereby directed that all hospital staff, particularly those in the blood centre and casualty (emergency) department, remain on high alert and be fully prepared to respond promptly and efficiently in the event of any emergency situation,' read the Baramulla order.
Internal checks, resource inventories, and staff coordination were among the immediate steps taken by the administration.
Stockpiles, surveillance, and staff presence
GMC Baramulla's advisory also outlined clear operational measures. Departments were instructed to ensure adequate supplies of all blood groups, maintain emergency beds, and stock essential drugs and tools.
The circular emphasised tightening hospital security, upgrading surveillance systems, and keeping all critical departments prepared for crowd control. Safety of both patients and medical staff was placed as a top concern.
This flurry of action follows the recent attack in Pahalgam and a broader spike in cross-border tension. Hospitals are not just care facilities in such times—they often double as critical response centres for civilian emergencies. Whether responding to terror attacks, sudden surges in casualties, or chemical incidents, their ability to remain functional and coordinated becomes vital.
While GMC Jammu backtracked, even briefly activating such an alert shows the pressure felt by public institutions in the Union Territory. In contrast, GMC Baramulla's sustained preparedness paints a picture of cautious consistency.
The wider question remains: how will public healthcare facilities in the region navigate ongoing instability? For now, they walk a careful line between caution and calm.
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