In a significant boost to healthcare infrastructure in the region, the first-ever Phacoemulsification (Phaco) Unit in District Hospital Kishtwar was inaugurated today by Member Legislative Assembly Kishtwar Shagun Parihar in the presence of Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar, Pankaj Kumar Sharma.
The state-of-the-art Phaco Unit, aimed at providing advanced cataract surgeries and enhanced ophthalmic care, marks a historic milestone—not only for the district but for the entire Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, as this is the first such unit to be installed in any district hospital across the UT.
The installation of this vital healthcare asset has been made possible under the Environment Management Plan of the KWAR Hydro Electric Power Project, at an estimated cost of ₹50 lakh.
Speaking on the occasion, the MLA lauded the initiative and stated that this is the first of its kind at District Hospital Kishtwar, emphasizing improved healthcare and ensuring access to modern medical facilities for all.
This Phaco unit is expected to significantly reduce the burden on patients needing eye surgery, enabling quicker (stitchless and painless cataract surgery), safer and more efficient treatment within the district.
GM HOP KWAR HEP, Shashi Kant Giri, AM KWAR HEP Sajid Rather, MS DH Kishtwar Dr. Yudhvir Singh Kotwal besides other senior officers and hospital staff were present on the occasion.