Kerala Human Rights Commission Mandates Swift Hospital Renovation
The Kerala State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has issued a firm directive to local authorities, demanding the completion of critical renovations at the Valiyathura Coastal Specialty Hospital within a strict two-month timeframe. This decisive action aims to restore essential inpatient care services that have been unavailable to the coastal community for an extended period.
Directive from Commission Chairperson
Justice Alexander Thomas, the esteemed chairperson of the SHRC, personally instructed the municipal secretary and the district medical officer to expedite the renovation of the hospital's wards. The order explicitly states that the indefinite suspension of inpatient services is completely unjustifiable, especially given the hospital's vital role in serving the local coastal population.
Background of Service Disruption
According to the commission's findings, the Valiyathura hospital previously operated as a 24-hour inpatient facility before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, inpatient care has been systematically discontinued over the past five years, leaving a significant gap in healthcare access. The current situation prompted a formal complaint, which led to the SHRC's intervention and the subsequent press release detailing the order.
Ongoing Renovation Efforts
Authorities have reported that ward renovations are already in progress at the hospital. Key improvements include:
- Replacement of solar panels originally installed by ANERT to ensure sustainable energy.
- Implementation of measures to address persistent leaks within the hospital infrastructure.
- Comprehensive roofing and ward upgrades to meet operational standards.
The district medical officer confirmed that 24-hour outpatient services remain available, but the full restoration of inpatient care is contingent upon the completion of these renovations.
Financial and Infrastructure Support
Significant financial allocations are supporting the hospital's revival. A health grant of Rs 15 lakh is anticipated for the 2025-26 fiscal year, earmarked for essential upgrades. Furthermore, the municipal secretary highlighted that the 15th Finance Commission has allocated a dedicated health grant specifically for establishing advanced diagnostic infrastructure at the facility, enhancing its long-term capabilities.
Previous Commission Actions
This is not the first time the SHRC has addressed this issue. An interim order was issued on April 8, 2025, mandating the resumption of both inpatient and 24-hour services within two months. The latest directive reinforces that timeline, emphasizing the urgency of the situation and the commission's commitment to upholding the healthcare rights of the coastal community.
The collective efforts of the SHRC, municipal authorities, and medical officers are now focused on ensuring that the Valiyathura Coastal Specialty Hospital can once again provide comprehensive, round-the-clock inpatient care, fulfilling its critical role in the region's healthcare ecosystem.
