Suhail Bhat
SRINAGAR, Sept 11: Stinky and leaking washrooms at Lal Ded Maternity Hospital in Srinagar have raised concerns over the risk of infection for patients who require heightened level of care and hygiene due to their weakened immune system.
Patients expressed grave dissatisfaction with the current state of facilities in the hospital’s washrooms. Complaints range from poor hygiene and leaking roofs to malfunctioning door knobs and the absence of proper toilet seats.
The patients said that such conditions not only cause inconvenience to patients but also expose them to potential infections. The patients have voiced their urgent demand for intervention from higher authorities to rectify the situation and prevent hospital-acquired infections.
Expectant mothers, in particular, have been facing hardships due to inadequate facilities. “The conditions here are unbearable, especially for expectant mothers like me. The absence of appropriate toilet seats and proper hygiene standards is a source of immense discomfort and worry,” patient said.
Patients further complained that the unpleasant smell persists in and around the washrooms, as the administration has failed to take measures to address it. “Though we do complain about the treatment, visiting the washrooms in this hospital is like descending into hell on earth. They stink terribly, and those who visit them are vulnerable to infections,” Basit Mir, an attendant from Ganderbal accompanying his wife for treatment, expressed his distress.
The Superintendent of Lal Ded Hospital, Muzaffar Sherwani, acknowledged the need for washroom upgrades. “I have already written to the Roads and Buildings Department, requesting the installation of toilet seats with side handles and other necessary facilities. I am awaiting their response,” he said. He, however, added that the washrooms are cleaned regularly.
An official from the Roads and Buildings Department confirmed that they had received the letter and forwarded it to the concerned officials for estimates. “Once we have the estimates and other necessary details, the project report will be prepared, tenders will be issued, and construction will commence,” the official assured.
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