After 7-year delay, Tuem hosp to begin ops soon

Mapusa: The much-awaited 100-bed hospital in Tuem, built for Rs 100 crore, is set to commence operations. Mandrem MLA Jit Arolkar said the facility will be affiliated with the Goa Medical College (GMC), Bambolim.Arolkar said that some crucial departments would start operations within two months, offering hope to Pernem residents who have long fought for its commissioning.He highlighted that the facility was inspected by GMC Dean Dr Tiwari, health department undersecretary Pranav Bhat, GMC medical superintendent Dr Rajesh Patil, health director Dr Kedar Raikar and officials from the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC) on Saturday.The Mandrem MLA’s efforts follow years of sustained pressure from the Tuem hospital action committee and local citizens.Sources said that although the MLA projected a two-month timeline for initial operations, department officials said it will take at least six months to become fully operational after GSIDC hands over the facility to the health department. They added that the dialysis unit and certain departments have to be shifted to the first floor.The new hospital is vital for Pernem, with citizens criticising the seven-year delay and urging it to be linked to GMC, in a meeting on Sunday.