Patiala: Punjab Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh has ordered an in-depth investigation into the sudden power outage in the operating theatre of the Government Rajindra Hospital in Patiala.
Inspection and Emergency Meeting
The minister personally visited the hospital’s 66 KV power sub-station on Saturday to assess the issue. Following the inspection, he chaired an emergency meeting with officials from Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL), the Public Works Department’s (PWD) electrical wing, and other engineers to discuss the matter in detail.
Dr. Singh emphasized that any negligence would face strict action. He announced that a detailed audit of the hospital’s power supply infrastructure was underway. Immediate measures to upgrade UPS systems, generator sets, and power lines were directed. Additionally, he mandated the installation of a ring main unit (RMU) on the Pasiana feeder line within a week to enhance power reliability.
Future Power Supply Measures
To prevent such incidents, the government is planning a comprehensive backup system:
- A 30-minute uninterrupted power supply (UPS).
- Generator activation within 1–2 minutes.
- Line switching capability within 10 minutes.
Dr. Singh assured that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has pledged sufficient funds to ensure quality health services across Punjab.
Rajindra Hospital Upgrades
The state government is working to transform Rajindra Hospital into a world-class facility. Plans include upgrading it to a postgraduate training institute modeled on Chandigarh’s PGI. Last July, an additional 11 KV power line was commissioned at a cost of ₹25 lakh to ensure uninterrupted electricity. A third 11 KV feeder from Shakti Vihar has also been installed to strengthen the hospital’s power infrastructure.
Commendation and Concerns
Dr. Singh commended the surgeons for continuing a procedure during the power outage but criticized a doctor for recording a video of the incident instead of prioritizing patient care. He called on medical professionals to maintain patience and professionalism during critical situations.
Patient Interaction
During his visit, Dr. Singh interacted with an elderly oncology patient in the surgery ward. He expressed satisfaction with the treatment provided by the medical team led by Dr. Anubha and reassured the patient’s family of the government’s commitment to quality healthcare.
The Punjab government under CM Bhagwant Mann is determined to set new benchmarks for healthcare and medical education in the state.
