Ranchi: For hundreds of patients arriving at Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (Rims) in the city from across Jharkhand and neighbouring states every day, the final 1.5-km journey to the state’s largest govt hospital has become a painful ordeal.The crucial Kokar-Tiril Road approach to Rims has remained in a dilapidated condition for over two years. Potholes, worn-out asphalt and waterlogging during rains force patients to endure a bumpy ride and ambulances to lose precious time.Around 2,500 to 3,000 patients visit Rims OPD daily, making the stretch a vital link for people seeking urgent and specialised treatment. Ambulance drivers said covering the 1.5-km road now takes at least 20 minutes, although the journey should ordinarily take no more than five minutes.The situation has been compounded by roadside stalls near the emergency ward, super-speciality block and trauma centre. The encroachments have narrowed the carriageway and triggered congestion during peak hours, often obstructing ambulances.Ambulance driver Amar Pandey, who ferries patients to Rims from different parts of the state, said the poor condition of the approach road posed a serious risk to critically ill patients.“Patients requiring specialised treatment are routinely referred to Rims, which makes this approach road particularly important. However, it has remained in a dilapidated condition for the past two years. The situation worsens with every monsoon, but authorities are yet to carry out repairs,” he said.Pandey said ambulances frequently take around 20 minutes to negotiate the stretch. “Such delays can be critical for patients in serious condition. In an emergency, every minute counts,” he said.A Rims employee, requesting anonymity, said the mushrooming of stalls and shops near the super-speciality block and trauma centre had further disrupted traffic movement.“A few months ago, the authorities demolished the stalls and cleared the road, ensuring smooth movement of vehicles entering the hospital. However, the vendors have returned and reoccupied the stretch,” the employee said.Ward 10 councillor Sangeeta Devi said she had raised the issue with Ranchi Municipal Corporation (RMC) officials but repairs were being held up because of a funds crunch.“I am aware of the condition of the road and the hardships faced by commuters as I am also a resident of the area. I have informed RMC officials about the need for repairs, but the work could not be taken up because of the lack of funds,” she said.
