TKGMCH needs repair works as infrastructure deteriorates

Following reports of gradual deterioration across the Thoothukudi Government Medical College and Hospital (TKGMCH), the facility is in dire need of periodic repair and maintenance.

The 500-bedded hospital, inaugurated around 15 years ago, has been facing several infrastructure-related challenges over the past one year. These include damaged tiled flooring at multiple places exposing concrete subfloor, crack developing on walls due plants growing over them leading to water seepage, frequent sewage blockages and other related issues.

“The tiles have worn away at many important locations, including floors near the Intensive Care Unit. This has made the transportation of patients in stretchers and wheelchairs risky,” said a patient visited the hospital.

Another major concern highlighted is the frequent stagnation of sewage at various places within the hospital premises due to blocked drains.

CPI(M) city secretary M.S. Muthu said that the concerns over the deteriorating infrastructure had been raised even during the party’s recent demonstration, noting that the issues must be addressed immediately. He added that whenever complaints are reported, the concerned authorities inspect only specific issues raised, without undertaking comprehensive maintenance work.

Mr. Muthu added the the authorities from Public Work Department (PWD) must carry out periodic inspection of hospital, asses the damage, and carry out timely rectification. He alleged that the maintenance work being carried out by the department are of poor quality and are prone to damage again.

“If the government introduces new facilities in the hospital, it does mean existing infrastructure should be neglected,” he said.

Sources from the hospital said that formal letters have been sent PWD department requesting repairs.

An official from PWD said that the damaged floors would be repaired within a week. The official added that DPR worth ₹2.22 crore has been sent to Directorate of Medical and Rural Health Services for the construction of new drainage system using model RCC open drains, which is currently awaiting approval.