GMCH Facilities: Bombay High Court’s Directive for Improved Amenities
In a significant move to address the inconvenience faced by the relatives of patients at the Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) in Nagpur, the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court issued a directive on Thursday. The court, comprising Justices Avinash Gharote and Mukulika Jawalkar, instructed the state government and GMCH dean to enhance facilities, including the provision of toilets, washrooms, and seating areas.
Recognizing the challenges faced by the patient’s kin due to the large expanse of the GMCH premises spread across 220 acres, the court emphasized the need for suitable facilities. The directive specifically mentioned the importance of toilets and washrooms at various locations within the premises. The court further urged the concerned authorities to provide open spaces where relatives can comfortably wait for extended periods.
Addressing the Lack of Basic Facilities
The directive was issued during the hearing of a suo motu plea (WP no 3427/2000, now SMPIL 1/2023) initiated by CH Sharma and others. The plea, highlighting the lack of basic facilities in GMCHs across Vidarbha, was being addressed through amicus curiae Anup Gilda. The court also directed the respondents to formulate a plan, to be submitted by February 22, outlining the provision of shelters, sheds, and water kiosks for the convenience of the waiting relatives, especially during adverse weather conditions.
Deployment of Security Personnel
During the proceedings, the government’s special counsel, Firdos Mirza, presented a resolution (GR) dated February 8, approving the administrative sanction of Rs10.25 crore for deploying 301 security guards at GMCH. The court expressed optimism that the deployment process would be completed within two weeks, emphasizing the importance of cooperation from the Maharashtra State Security Board.
Permanent Police Post and Traffic Management
Addressing the issue of a police post near the GMCH gates, the court emphasized the need for a permanent post to monitor traffic efficiently. The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC), in collaboration with the police and GMCH authorities, was directed to identify a suitable location outside the boundary wall for the permanent post. An inspection is scheduled for February 17 at 10 am, with a report to be submitted by the next date.
Encroachment Removal and Illumination
The court took note of the encroachments adjacent to the GMCH boundary and was informed by NMC counsel Jemini Kasat that action for removal was underway. A detailed action taken report is expected on the next date. Additionally, the court addressed the need for sufficient solar panel street lights to ensure illumination from sunset till midnight on the GMCH premises. The dean is expected to provide a statement on this matter by the next hearing scheduled for February 22.
the Bombay High Court’s directive reflects a commitment to improving the overall facilities at GMCH (Government Medical College and Hospital Nagpur), ensuring the comfort and well-being of patients’ relatives. The comprehensive approach, covering security deployment, traffic management, encroachment removal, and adequate illumination, aims to transform GMCH into a more accommodating and efficient healthcare facility.
