Chandigarh: The UT administration took a tough stance over the operational delays at the govt hospital in Sector 48. Health secretary Mandeep Singh Brar issued an ultimatum during a high-level meeting on Tuesday: submit a concrete functional plan within 2 weeks, or the administration will seek alternative management for the facility.The health secretary directed the director principal of GMCH-32 to take immediate steps to overhaul the hospital’s current state. This followed a recent visit by the Punjab Governor and UT Administrator, who expressed deep dissatisfaction with the building’s management and the lack of patient services. While the health department previously expressed interest in taking over the hospital’s operations, the proposal remained stuck in bureaucratic red tape. Built to provide accessible healthcare to local residents, the Sector 48 hospital struggled to meet its objectives. Though it was initially inaugurated under the management of GMCH-32 with 4 functional departments, the facility dwindled due to a lack of resources and specialist doctors. Three out of 4 departments completely shut down. Currently, only a limited indoor facility for the psychiatry department is operational. Emergency services remain unavailable on-site, forcing patients to travel to GMCH-32. The administration’s primary focus is now on restarting the closed wings and ensuring that quality treatment is available close to home for residents of the surrounding areas. Officials noted that while photography and initial surveys for the takeover were completed, the final reports are yet to be processed. If GMCH-32 fails to present a viable roadmap within the stipulated time, the administration is expected to move forward with a “Plan B” to ensure the multi-crore infrastructure does not go to waste. Dr Ravneet Kaur, Director Principal of GMCH, conducted a thorough inspection of the Sector 48 hospital on Wednesday along with her team to assess the current ground reality and facilities.
