Shimla:
The Himachal Pradesh High Court has pulled up the authorities over prolonged delays in providing basic infrastructure and facilities at the Atal Institute of Medical Super Specialities (AIMSS), Chamiana, warning that senior officials may be summoned to court if the situation does not improve. The court expressed displeasure over the lack of progress despite repeated directions issued earlier.
Bench Warns of Personal Appearance
A division bench comprising Chief Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia and Justice Jiya Lal Bhardwaj observed that more than a year had passed without substantial compliance, even though senior secretaries had been present during previous hearings. The bench made it clear that if the deficiencies are not addressed by the next hearing, the concerned secretaries would be required to appear personally to explain the inaction.
Deficiencies Highlighted by Amicus Curiae
While reviewing suggestions submitted by the amicus curiae and a member of the high-powered committee, the court flagged several shortcomings, including the absence of proper directional signboards on major routes leading to AIMSS Chamiana. These routes include Tara Devi, Ghanati/Tutu, Kufri–Naldehra, ISBT to Bhatakuffer, Victory Tunnel to Sanjauli via IGMC, and Circular Road, causing inconvenience to patients and attendants.
Funds, Parking and Transport Issues
The High Court directed the state to release funds by January 30, 2026, for land acquisition, installation of solar street lights, and removal of high-tension electric poles and domestic power lines. Parking was identified as a major concern, with the hospital requiring space for around 1,000 vehicles but currently having only about 60 slots. The PWD secretary was asked to submit a comprehensive plan to address the shortage, while the HRTC managing director was directed to file an affidavit on improving public transport connectivity between AIMSS, ISBT and IGMC Shimla.
Concern Over Patient Facilities
The court also took note of reports that NGO Almighty Blessing is providing free meals to patients and attendants at AIMSS Chamiana. It observed that temporary space should be provided to the NGO so that patients and their families can have meals in a proper place instead of on the roadside, underscoring the urgent need to improve basic patient amenities at the facility.
