In a concerning development at the community health centre (CHC) located in Neyyattinkara, Thiruvananthapuram district, two government vehicles, including a crucial ambulance, have been lying unused and rusting on the hospital premises for over a year. This prolonged neglect is severely affecting patient services and the centre's operational efficiency.
Vehicles Decommissioned After 15 Years of Service
The ambulance and a health department van were taken off the road after completing 15 years of service. This action was taken in accordance with central government regulations that mandate the auctioning of government vehicles without retesting once they cross the prescribed age limit. Acting on an order issued by the district medical officer (DMO), the vehicles were parked within the hospital compound and have since remained idle, exposed to the elements.
Impact on Healthcare Services and Outreach Programmes
The CHC, situated in Athiyannoor panchayat, caters to a significant population and runs inpatient services, medical camps, and ward-level outreach programmes. The health department van was primarily used for staff transport and facilitating medical camps, while the ambulance played a vital role in shifting emergency patients to the general hospital or medical college hospital for advanced care. The absence of these vehicles has created logistical challenges and hampered the centre's ability to provide timely medical assistance.
Lack of Action on Auctioning Leads to Deterioration
Officials have not initiated steps to auction the expired vehicles, resulting in their continued deterioration on the premises. The rusting and disuse not only represent a waste of public resources but also contribute to clutter and potential safety hazards within the hospital compound.
Hospital Authorities Report Matter to DMO Office
Hospital authorities have stated that the matter has been reported to the DMO's office. "It is now the DMO office that is authorised to take a decision," a hospital source said. However, repeated attempts to contact the DMO for a response on the delay in resolving the issue were unsuccessful, leaving the future of the vehicles and the restoration of full services uncertain.
The situation highlights administrative lapses in the management of government assets and underscores the need for prompt action to ensure that healthcare facilities are fully equipped to serve the community effectively.
