IGMC refutes reports of emergency services being paralysed due to lift malfunction
https://himachalscape.com/
IGMC refutes reports of emergency services being paralysed due to lift malfunction
Shimla, June 29
The Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) and Hospital, Shimla, has issued a strong clarification rebutting media reports that claimed emergency health services were paralysed due to the malfunctioning of a lift in the D-Block. The hospital administration termed the reports factually incorrect and said they created an unwarranted impression about the functioning of the state’s premier tertiary healthcare institution.
Senior Medical Superintendent Dr. Rahul Rao said the administration was aware that the D-Block lift had developed a technical snag, but emergency services continued uninterrupted with alternative arrangements in place. He said the reports suggesting that patients were routinely being carried on shoulders were misleading and did not reflect the actual situation.
According to the hospital, the incident occurred on June 27 at around 12 noon when a patient’s attendant, while in a hurry, rammed a stretcher carrying an oxygen cylinder into the lift door, resulting in a temporary technical fault. The Public Works Department’s Electrical Wing was immediately informed, and its technical staff repaired the lift. The lift resumed operation at around 4 pm the same day.
Dr. Rao said patient movement was managed through alternative arrangements during the repair period, ensuring that emergency services were not disrupted.
The hospital also informed that Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has approved the construction of two new lifts and a ramp in the D-Block in accordance with the National Building Code. Directions have been issued to complete the work on priority to improve accessibility for patients and attendants.
Also Read
IGMC AIIMS Chamiana Shimla: Lives at risk, warn Citizens group
The administration further noted that the Chief Minister recently inaugurated the Municipal Corporation parking facility near the Auckland tunnel to improve access to the hospital. It appealed to patients and visitors to use the Auckland-side approach road to the new OPD and hospital premises to reduce congestion until the new infrastructure is completed.
About the Author
