The first-ever 1.5 Tesla MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) machine was inaugurated by Tashi Gyalson, CEC, Hill Council, Leh on August 24 at MRI Centre, SNM Hospital Leh. 

The machine, costing ₹12.78 crore has been donated by the Airport Authority of India (AAI) under one of their CSR initiatives in Ladakh. 

CEC, Tashi Gyalson congratulated the people of Ladakh for having the first civil advanced MRI Machine at the SNM Hospital Leh and extended gratitude to the AAI for their noble support in establishing the machine. He also extended his gratitude to the former CECs of Leh, Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, and Gyal P Wangyal, the UT and District Administration for their timely contributions in initiating and completing the project.

Highlighting the importance of having such crucial medical equipment in Ladakh, he stated that the MRI machine would solve the hardships faced by Ladakhi. He also thanked the medical fraternity for their tireless effort in fighting against the Covid-19 pandemic. He assured that the Hill Council, in close coordination with the District and UT Administration, would strive to provide better facilities.

Principal Secretary, Dr. Pawan Kotwal, stated that the newly established MRI machine would enhance the diagnostic capabilities of the hospital and help local patients avail of such facilities at their doorstep. He also appreciated the contribution of the medical fraternity in controlling the spread of the coronavirus in UT Ladakh. 

DC Leh, Shrikant Suse, and Airport Director Leh, Malkeet Singh spoke about the importance of having a much-needed MRI machine facility in Ladakh.