Unsanitary conditions of government hospital revealed in viral video

Bringing to light the lack of apathy towards ensuring cleanliness in hospitals, especially considering prevalence of air borne diseases, a source from Dhagam Foundation – an organisation that works for social issues – had taken a video of the situation at the institution two days ago, which showed the rear side of the Madras Medical College Block (the old red and white building at RGGGH) in a deplorable condition. “There was sewage water overflowing everywhere. If the condition of RGGGH is like this, what can I say about other hospitals! It is a classic case of the government’s apathy towards a burning issue,” read his post uploaded on Facebook. “I have seen collectors levying fines for unhygienic places. Here is one that needs the attention of the collector,” he added.

Stressing on the importance of hygiene, especially in hospitals, Arathi P, an activist said, “We are complaining about dengue and other diseases and a number of lives are being lost. How can we take our loved ones to an institution that does not believe in hygiene, where their condition might only get worse? Severe action must be taken against such institutions in this regard.” Irked by the condition at the institution, members of the foundation complained about the same with the 104 helpline. “We took up this issue and enquired with the hospital officials as well. We got a response from the office of the Resident Medical officer (RMO) of the hospital saying that the mess has been cleared and the problem sorted,” said Prashant Gautam, from the organisation.

However, speaking to DT Next, the RMO denied the accusation saying, “It is an old video that is being circulated of a time during the rainy season. The situation is not like that anymore.”

Dr K Narayanaswamy, Medical Superintendent of the hospital said, “This overflow was followed by heavy rains which caused flooding and leakage. It was cleaned by PWD officials immediately. I have seen the video as well and understand the issue. However, this is not the case anymore. We will anyhow look into the matter again.”

It also may be noted that the organisation received a few pictures from the RMO’s office of the cleaning work being undertaken, as proof that the hospital has cleaned up the space.