Phulbani, Kandhamal: The General Medicine Ward of the Kandhamal District Headquarters Hospital has turned into a picture of utter neglect and mismanagement, with patients and their attendants facing severe hardship.
According to reports, although a generator is available in the ward, it remains non-functional due to the unavailability of diesel. Frequent power cuts plunge the entire ward into complete darkness, forcing patients and their relatives to rely on mobile phone flashlights for basic visibility.
The situation is further worsened by the prevailing heat, leaving patients extremely uncomfortable and distressed. Despite being the largest government healthcare facility in the district, the hospital reportedly lacks a proper functional power backup system.
Attendants alleged that during power outages, it becomes difficult to even call doctors or nurses, as they often refuse to attend, asking people to wait until electricity is restored.
The hospital is currently functioning without a permanent Chief District Medical and Public Health Officer. Complaints from patients and attendants go unheard. The Additional District Magistrate (ADM), who is holding additional charge, is said to be frequently away on tours.
In one recent incident, noted local personality Padmashree awardee Tadi Saru Bai was admitted to the hospital after falling ill. However, she allegedly received neither proper treatment nor basic diagnostic tests like ultrasound, and was eventually sent back home.
Local residents and various organisations have warned that if the district administration fails to address these serious issues immediately, they will be forced to launch joint protests. They have strongly demanded that the District Collector and Additional District Collector intervene and take urgent steps to improve the situation at the hospital.