Nagpur GMCH Cancer Therapy Unit to Receive Rs 1 Crore for Critical Cobalt-60 Source Replacement
In a significant development for cancer care in Maharashtra, State Medical Education Minister Hasan Mushrif announced on Monday that Rs 1 crore has been approved to procure a fresh Cobalt-60 source for the struggling radiation therapy unit at the Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) in Nagpur. This funding injection aims to address critical delays in treatment that have plagued the facility due to an aging radioactive component.
Technical and Administrative Approvals Secured for Urgent Upgrade
Minister Mushrif informed the legislative assembly that both technical and administrative approvals have been received for acquiring the new Cobalt-60 source, which is the radioactive element essential for delivering precise radiation therapy to cancer patients. The allocated funds are expected to become available in April, enabling the cobalt machine to operate at full capacity as soon as possible thereafter.
GMCH officials clarified that while the unit remains functional, it is not performing optimally due to the gradual weakening of its current source. Originally installed nearly a decade ago and last replaced in 2016, the Cobalt-60 source has surpassed its effective lifespan of approximately five years. This degradation has resulted in slower radiation delivery and a reduced number of patients treated daily.
Patient Impact and Procurement Challenges Highlighted
Currently, around 80 patients require cobalt therapy each day at GMCH, but many are forced to return without receiving treatment due to the slowdown. Delays in sourcing a replacement have exacerbated the crisis, with procurement lags stemming from the typical import of Cobalt-60 from Canada. Attempts to secure it domestically through the Board of Radiation and Isotope Technology (BRIT) were unsuccessful due to technical constraints.
The issue was brought to the forefront in the Assembly by MLA Nitin Raut, who emphasized the severe strain on cancer patients reliant on timely radiation therapy. His intervention underscored the urgent need for action to prevent further disruptions in life-saving care.
Broader Infrastructure Upgrades and Future Enhancements
Alongside the revival of the cobalt unit, the government is advancing long-pending infrastructure upgrades to bolster cancer treatment facilities in Nagpur. Minister Mushrif stated that the administration is focused on strengthening these services, with several improvements in treatment infrastructure slated for implementation over the next 5-6 months.
To further enhance cancer care capabilities, an advanced linear accelerator machine has also been approved. A purchase order for this state-of-the-art equipment was issued on February 20, and it is projected to become operational within six months. This addition will significantly improve access to effective and modern treatment options for cancer patients across the region.
Key Points of the Announcement:
- Rs 1 crore approved for new Cobalt-60 source at GMCH Nagpur.
- Funds expected in April to restore full therapy capacity.
- Aging source has reduced daily patient treatment from 80.
- Linear accelerator machine approved to boost future care.
This comprehensive initiative marks a pivotal step toward addressing critical gaps in cancer treatment infrastructure, ensuring that patients in Nagpur and surrounding areas receive the timely and effective radiation therapy they desperately need.
