MANGAN: A joint inspection of the newly constructed District Hospital Mangan was carried out on Friday in view of its upcoming inauguration.
The visit was led by Secretary, Health and Family Welfare Department, Government of Sikkim, Tshewang Gyachho. He was accompanied by Principal Directors Dr Pema Seden, Dr DC Sharma and Dr Sangeeta Pradhan, Director Health-cum-CHSO Dr Junita Yonjan, Chief Engineers, Additional Chief Engineers and other senior officials of the department.
On his arrival, the Secretary was received by DC Mangan Mr Anant Jain, along with CMO, District Hospital Mangan, Dr Tempo T Kaleon, DMS Dr. Ringzing Dolma Bhutia and doctors.
The team reviewed the hospital’s preparedness for the formal inauguration scheduled on 17 September. The Secretary stressed the timely and efficient completion of all arrangements, describing the event as a milestone for the district and an important step in strengthening healthcare services for the people of North Sikkim. He added that the hospital’s operational readiness would stand as a reflection of the joint commitment of the department and its officials.
During the visit, they inspected the various units of the hospital and premises and highlighted the need for minor repairs, proper casing of wiring, additional lighting, and improvement of ventilation and drainage systems.
Thereafter, the Secretary convened a meeting with the Unit Heads, nurses and paramedical staff, in the presence of DC Mangan, officers from Health Department, CMO and DMS. During the meeting, operational challenges were shared and issues were raised such as shortage of manpower in various units, lack of ventilation in the new infrastructure, drainage system, and the urgent requirement of specialists such as a paediatrician and an anaesthetist.
Addressing the meeting, the Secretary acknowledged these concerns and assured that steps would be taken in a phased manner. He directed officials to give priority to urgent works ahead of the inauguration and suggested regular visits by the Principal Directors once every two months to maintain close communication with hospital staff. He further called for better coordination among concerned authorities, pointing out that lapses in communication often led to delays in execution. He also assured that efforts would be made to operationalise the blood bank at the earliest. He also mentioned the need for installation of CCTV and intercom and designated room for the drivers.
The Secretary concluded by reiterating the importance of completing all pending works on time and expressed confidence that the inauguration would mark the beginning of a new chapter in healthcare for the district. He extended his best wishes for the successful conduct of the programme.
- IPR Mangan
