Chandigarh: The Govt Multi-Specialty Hospital (GMSH) in Sector 16 is undergoing a major overhaul, marking the first major renovation of its emergency wing in 50 years. This comprehensive modernisation effort aims to replace decades of dated infrastructure with a resilient, high-tech emergency response centre. According to Dr Suman Singh, director of health services, UT, the transformation is moving at a rapid pace, with the revamping of the existing emergency wing and the creation of a brand-new critical care unit (CCU) expected to be completed within 1 month. This upgrade is critical, as the current CCU still relies on an ageing network of built-in oxygen pipes that served the hospital for half a century.Parallel to this renovation, the construction of the new emergency block extension, specifically designed as a triage room, is on track for completion within 8 months. The Rs 1-crore project, which officially commenced last year, will add 20 specialised beds to the hospital’s emergency capacity.The architectural layout spans 2 floors, with each level featuring a 10-bed triage room and a central nurses’ station to ensure continuous patient monitoring. To facilitate swift medical response, the design includes wide corridors for patient and staff movement, alongside a lobby and specific service areas. The Public Health department is spearheading the integration of advanced life-support infrastructure, including a medical gas pipeline system to ensure a direct and reliable supply of oxygen and other essential gases to every bedside. To maintain a sterile and controlled environment, a comprehensive Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system is being installed to regulate air quality and temperature.Technically, the new wing is being outfitted with advanced safety and mobility features, such as an electrical stretcher lift for vertical patient transport and an automated fire-sensing system. Furthermore, the facility will include a comprehensive firefighting network and “open-to-sky” areas designed to provide natural ventilation and daylight to the interior wards.“The design also prioritises accessibility and hygiene by incorporating dedicated toilets for ladies and differently abled persons on each level. Once the construction settles, GMSH-16 will be equipped to handle complex medical emergencies with enhanced precision, safety, and modern clinical standards,” said an official in GMSH-16.
