Work begins on Urban Primary Health Centre building in Nagapattinam after much delay

Construction work for a new Urban Primary Health Centre (UPHC) building on Marundhu Kothalam Road in Nagapattinam has finally begun, following the demolition of the old and damaged structure last week. This comes after several representations made by residents and civic groups.

Two years ago, the UPHC was temporarily shifted to a Health and Wellness Centre on Pazha Street in Ward 30, after the old building was declared unsafe. The temporary location — situated on a narrow and congested stretch — met with criticism because of water stagnation and poor road condition, which made it challenging for patients to reach the facility.

Although ₹1.2 crore had been sanctioned under the National Health Mission, the demolition and reconstruction work faced significant delays. Lack of progress prompted several appeals from residents, civil society organisations, and political representatives urging the authorities to expedite the work.

K. Venkadesan, town secretary of the CPI(M), said this was the only UPHC serving Nagapattinam town. “The delay has caused great hardship to the public. The construction must be completed at the earliest without excuses,” he said.

Officials from the Health Department said the construction was now under way and was expected to be completed within six months.