Kokernag, Dec 28: Heavy snowfall left roads in the Gadole area of Kokernag, South Kashmir, impassable, forcing a woman to deliver her baby at home. The newborn tragically died shortly after birth, according to the family.
The woman, Masrat Jan, wife of Nawaz Ahmad Magray of Magraypora Gadole, gave birth to a baby boy at 11:00 AM on Saturday. A relative, Bilal Ahmad Magray, said their repeated attempts to seek help from the Tehsil administration and road clearance teams went unanswered.
“No machinery, not even a JCB, was sent to clear the snow. The road is still blocked, and we haven’t been able to move her to a hospital,” Magray explained. Asha workers and health officials were also unable to reach the family due to the road conditions.
The family has called for improved snow clearance and better healthcare accessibility to prevent similar tragedies.
Kokernag SDM Suheel Ahmad Lone said the administration made efforts to reach the family but faced challenges due to heavy snowfall. “We sent a vehicle, but the snow-covered, slippery roads made it impossible. The woman delivered at home, but this does not qualify as medical negligence,” he stated.
Lone added that snow clearance in 80% of the Kokernag area is complete, with full restoration expected by evening. Electricity has also been restored in most areas.
(KNO)