Srinagar : On pubic demand, Kashmir Medical College and Hospital (KMCH) Sempora on Thursday launched a free bus service for patients and their attendants aimed at improving access to healthcare services.
The free bus service was formally flagged off from Dalgate to Sempora by Medical Superintendent KMCH, Dr. Syed Mubashir, in the presence of the KMCH team, marking the launch of a first-of-its-kind patient transport initiative in Jammu and Kashmir.
Managing Director KMCH, Tausif Ahmad, said the decision was taken after the hospital received feedback and suggestions from the public regarding transportation difficulties faced by patients and their attendants while visiting the hospital.
“We received several messages from people highlighting the need for dedicated transport facilities. After assessing the demand, we decided to start the service to ensure that patients can reach the hospital comfortably and without any inconvenience,” he said.
In the first phase, the hassle-free bus service has been launched on Dalgate–Sempora and Pampore–Sempora routes, with buses operating daily from 10 a.m. onwards for the convenience of patients and their attendants.
The service is expected to benefit a large number of patients, particularly the elderly, those with mobility issues, and attendants accompanying them for treatment and consultations.
Tausif Ahmad said the initiative reflects KMCH’s commitment to making quality healthcare more accessible and affordable.
“Our OPD consultation fee is just Rs 50, and through this transport facility we want to further reduce the burden on patients and their families. Easy transportation is an important part of healthcare accessibility,” he said.
He added that many patients face challenges while commuting to hospitals, and the service will help them save time, reduce travel-related stress and ensure timely access to medical care.
The Managing Director said the response from the public has been encouraging and that KMCH plans to expand the bus service to additional areas in the future so that more people across the Valley can benefit from the facility.
“This initiative is part of our broader vision to provide patient-friendly services and ensure that no one is deprived of healthcare due to transportation difficulties,” he said.
KMCH Sempora believes in providing quality healthcare at an affordable cost so that advanced medical services become accessible to people from all sections of society across Jammu and Kashmir.
