Vadodara: More than 30 critically ill patients at SSG Hospital have endured sweltering conditions for nearly five days after the central air-conditioning system failed in key intensive care units. Repeated power fluctuations have compounded the disruptions at central Gujarat's largest government hospital.
Impact on Medical ICU and ICCU
Authorities confirmed on Wednesday that the Medical ICU (MICU) and Intensive Cardiac Care Unit (ICCU) were affected, creating severe difficulties for both patients and medical staff during peak summer heat. Doctors and hospital administrators stated that they had repeatedly flagged the issue to maintenance agencies, but the problem persists without resolution.
A patient's relative expressed frustration, saying, 'We have no complaints about the treatment provided by doctors, but the ACs in the ICU should be functioning. It is difficult for even a healthy person to bear the peak summer heat. How can critically ill patients be expected to endure such conditions?'
Hospital's Limited Control Over Repairs
Medical superintendent Dr. Ranjan Aiyer explained that the hospital has limited control over repairs. 'We are dependent on PIU engineers and are helpless, as maintenance of these systems is not in our control,' he said. Officials noted that the malfunction coincided with frequent voltage fluctuations and feeder failures, leading to repeated power disruptions. Interruptions in supply from Madhya Gujarat Vij Company Limited (MGVCL) have worsened the situation. 'There have been multiple interruptions. I have conveyed the issue to the concerned authorities and lodged complaints through the grievance redressal system,' Aiyer added.
Additional Infrastructure Problems
The hospital has also faced other infrastructure issues. One lift remained non-functional for four days due to technical faults, inconveniencing patients, including those undergoing dialysis. Some dialysis patients were referred to GMERS Hospital in Gotri. The lift was restored on Wednesday. Sources indicated that rodents had damaged wiring in certain sections, prompting pest-control measures. However, the air-conditioning system remained non-functional as of the latest reports.
