Kerala Chief Minister Inaugurates State-of-the-Art Cochin Cancer Research Centre
In a significant boost to healthcare infrastructure in Kerala, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan officially inaugurated the new building of the Cochin Cancer Research Centre (CCRC) on Monday. The premier institution, located near the Government Medical College campus in Kalamassery, Kochi, features 100 in-patient beds and comprehensive allied facilities.
Addressing Persistent Health Challenges
During the inauguration ceremony, Chief Minister Vijayan highlighted the ongoing health challenges facing the state. "While we have made notable progress in the health sector, serious issues like infectious diseases, zoonotic diseases, and lifestyle diseases continue to pose significant threats," he stated. He specifically categorized cancer as a lifestyle disease, underscoring the need for proactive measures.
"The government is shifting its focus towards disease prevention and early diagnosis rather than solely relying on treatment after onset," Vijayan explained. To streamline these efforts, a cancer control board has been established at the government level to ensure proper direction and coordination of all cancer-related activities across Kerala.
A Modern Healthcare Marvel
The newly constructed CCRC building complex, developed with an investment of Rs 449 crore from the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB), spans an impressive 6.3 lakh square feet. Equipped with cutting-edge medical technology and modern amenities, this centre is poised to become a cornerstone of cancer care in the region.
Chief Minister Vijayan noted that the CCRC, which began its operations on a modest scale in November 2016, has now evolved into the most crucial cancer treatment facility in central Kerala. "This centre will provide substantial support to the region, offering advanced diagnostic and therapeutic services to patients," he added.
KIIFB's Transformative Role
Vijayan also praised the instrumental role of KIIFB in transforming Kerala's infrastructure landscape. "KIIFB has addressed many of Kerala's critical needs, evident across various sectors including education, health, national highway development, and coastal-highland highways," he remarked.
He emphasized that KIIFB's contributions to the health sector have been particularly impactful, facilitating the upgrade of primary health centres into family health centres and introducing super-specialty facilities from taluk hospitals to medical college hospitals. "These achievements would not have been possible through budget support alone. KIIFB has undertaken development projects worth Rs 90,000 crore across multiple sectors," the Chief Minister stated.
Government's Commitment to Affordable Cancer Care
The event was presided over by Health Minister Veena George, with Industries Minister P Rajeeve delivering the keynote address. Health Minister George highlighted Kerala's efforts in making cancer treatment more accessible, "Kerala offers cancer medicines at the lowest rates in the entire country, ensuring affordability for all patients."
Industries Minister Rajeeve reinforced the government's dedication to public health, stating, "Our goal is to provide the best and most advanced cancer treatment free of charge to the common people, eliminating financial barriers to care."
Recognition and Future Prospects
During the ceremony, CCRC Special Officer and CIAL MD S Suhas presented a detailed project report, outlining the centre's development and future plans. In a notable recognition of sustainable practices, World Bank Southeast Asia Lead Atif Syed handed over a green building certificate to CCRC Director Dr P G Balagopal, acknowledging the centre's environmentally friendly design and construction.
The inauguration of the Cochin Cancer Research Centre marks a pivotal step in Kerala's healthcare journey, combining state-of-the-art infrastructure with a strong emphasis on prevention, early diagnosis, and affordable treatment for cancer patients across the region.
