GMC Anantnag hospital infested with rats

Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Dec 30: The Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), operating at the Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag, has been plagued by a rat infestation, causing sleepless nights for patients and their attendants.
Attendants reported that rats can be seen moving around, sneaking under beddings, food supplies, and even patients’ personal belongings.
They expressed their discomfort, citing several instances where rats were seen crawling onto patient beds.
One of the attendants, Fayaz Ahmad, who is caring for his father, described the situation as distressing.
“In an unhygienic environment like this, how can they expect patients to recover properly without facing additional risks?” he asked.
He added that the rats are not confined to a specific area but are present everywhere.
Hospital staff also confirmed that the infestation is widespread, including storage areas containing medical supplies.
The staff attributed the infestation to “improper waste management” and the hospital’s aging infrastructure. “These conditions provide a conducive environment for rodents to thrive,” they said.
While attendants are urging hospital authorities to take immediate action, it has come to light that the staff had previously raised the issue of the rat infestation with the administration. However, allegedly, no action was taken.
Meanwhile, Principal GMC Anantnag, Dr. Rukhsana Jabeen, stated that a committee has been formed to address the issue. She assured that measures are being taken to prevent such incidents in the future.
“We have formed a committee to ascertain the facts and have instructed them to submit a report within 24 hours. Our top priority is the safety and care of patients. Those found neglecting their duties will face strict action,” she said.