Demand: To replace the power generator set of PHC which remains under repair since 3 years

Port Blair, July 30: During the times of ongoing pandemic crisis, when the states and UTs of our nation are doing their best to provide better health care and facilities to the citizens, it is shocking to note that the residents of Tushnabad and nearby panchayats have been pleading for a basic ‘generator set’ for the Primary Health Centre. It is learnt that the Primary Health Centre, Tushnabad has been functioning without a generator set since the last three years, with no authority to even consider the genuine plea of the residents.

The generator set of PHC Tushnabad was put under repair three years ago, thereby posing immense difficulties for the residents who visit the hospital, especially the in-patients who are forced to deal with the situation during the frequent power cuts.

Andaman Chronicle came to know that the Director of Health Services has been approached, not once on this matter but several times by the residents and the representatives, verbally as well as through written requests. In spite of this, there was absolutely no move from the Director to provide a basic and mandatory facility for a health centre.

It was only during the second wave of corona pandemic, when the matter was brought to the notice of the Deputy Commissioner and Sub Divisional Magistrate, South Andaman that a temporary arrangement was made by hiring a generator to meet the requirements. This temporary arrangement by the Dy. Commissioner was also withdrawn a month ago.

Considering the unsympathetic and careless attitude of the health authorities, Shri Anand Amrit Raj, Ex-Up Adhyaksh, Zilla Parishad has written to the Lt. Governor requesting to resolve the issue at the earliest. The Ex-Up Adhyaksh had also intimated that the villagers may be forced to resort to an agitation if the basic demand is not met. 

Finally after all struggles and pleas, the residents of Tushnabad and nearby areas took to the street, amidst Corona pandemic demanding for an immediate settlement of the issue. Following the agitation, the Dy. Director, Health Services visited the spot and tried to assure that the matter will be resolved. However the residents have given an indication that if there is any further delay, they would go in for a bigger agitation to fulfill the basic and legitimate demand.