MANSI BHAMBRI | Dehradun
Many patients raised concerns over the ongoing multiple construction projects at the Deen Dayal Upadhyay district hospital as they are more susceptible to allergies and infections due to dust and other debris. Currently, multiple construction efforts are taking place at the district hospital, including the building of a blood bank, a canteen, multi-level parking and others. As a result of these projects, the hospital has been left covered in dust and other materials. Patients have voiced their concern and called on the authorities to address this issue for the sake of the health of those seeking treatment at the facility.
A patient Neelama Kanojia (name changed) said that she has been visiting the hospital’s outpatient department frequently for check-ups over the past few months. She has noticed the ongoing construction work and the dust from the construction site has adversely affected patients like herself at the hospital. She expressed concern that every time she visits the hospital, she starts coughing because of the dust. She said that the construction work is of patients benefit only, but the authorities should propose that they should focus on one construction project at a time rather than multiple projects simultaneously. The hospital administration must take some steps to overcome the dust element in patients’ designated areas.
Another patient, Ravi stated that those visiting the hospital are already battling illnesses, which leaves their immune systems weakened. He pointed out that ongoing construction could increase their risk of infections and allergies. Ravi said that he personally finds it challenging to breathe in the hospital due to dust and various construction materials present everywhere. He emphasised that prioritising single construction projects would be more beneficial for the health of patients. Additionally, the hospital administration should also take some initiative to overcome dust at the hospital inside areas.
Many other patients have voiced similar concerns regarding simultaneous construction efforts and their attendees have echoed these worries as well.
In this regard, the medical superintendent at the hospital Dr VS Chauhan said that dust from the construction work could lead to coughing and other health issues for patients, particularly those who are already allergic. However, he said that the hospital administration is taking measures to ensure that the facility is regularly cleaned on a shift basis to minimise the impact of dust on patients. Further, the multiple construction work, which has contributed to the dust issue, is nearly complete. Additionally, in view of the health of patients, the administration plans to require both patients and doctors to wear masks temporarily until the construction work is fully finished, he said.
