Srinagar, Aug 22 (UNI) The authorities have set up a committee to investigate death of a patient in the Lalded Hospital allegedly due to shortage of drugs.

Meanwhile, a Health Department spokesman denied that there was any shortage of life saving and other drugs in the valley.

Principal, Government College (GMC), Srinagar, said the cause of the death of a patient from Handwara was being investigated by a Committee constituted by the Medical Superintendent of the Lalded Hospital.

He said once the Committee submitted its report, it would be made public.

The spokesman added that a close watch was being kept on the availability of drugs and medicines in the Government health institutions as well as private sector in the Kashmir valley.

He said the Health and Medical Education Department had also earmarked helpline telephone numbers for the people in case they face any difficulties regarding the availability of doctors, other medical staff, ambulances and medicines.

The availability of drugs and medicines in the Associated Hospital of GMC, Srinagar, was again reviewed here yesterday with the Principal.

It was stated that there was no shortage of essential drugs in the Associated Hospitals, including the Lalded Hospital.

There was enough stock of life saving drugs in all the Associated Hospitals, which would suffice for four to six weeks. Besides, some supplies had also been received by road.

The Principal, GMC, Srinagar, said whenever a specific item was required in a compelling situation, the same was met by purchases from the local markets where it was available.

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