John Wilbert &Vikramaditya
Port Blair, Feb 23: Patients at the Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Hut Bay have been allegedly not getting food from PHC for several months, according to recent reports. The General Public has raised concerns over the issue, claiming that patients admitted to the hospital are being forced to purchase food from outside. However, Hut Bay’s remote location makes this an incredibly difficult task.
Rajesh Kumar Majumdar, a permanent resident of Hut Bay and the Prabhari BJYM South Andaman District, stated that the PHC used to provide breakfast and meals to admitted patients daily. However, the poor patients whose residence is far from the hospital are now facing significant problems since this service is no longer available.
When Andaman Sheekha Daily contacted DHS officials, it was revealed that the regular supply of wet ration was interrupted due to the non-availability of wet ration articles, including vegetables, non-veg items, and bakery items.
The tender was initially uploaded on GEM Portal well in advance, before the expiry of the previous tender. However, the bid had to be cancelled due to a lack of participants. The tender was then floated on the E-procurement Portal, where once again, there were no participants. It has been emphasized that logistical limitations have made it difficult for local sellers from Port Blair to supply wet ration on a daily basis.
For the time being, the supply of food has been restored after completing the codal formalities by the MO(I/c), PHC (Hutbay). However, necessary action will be initiated to finalize the annual tender. Mr. Rajesh Kumar Majumdar has requested that the Andaman and Nicobar Administration intervenes in this matter and provides food items without any delay.
This issue has raised concerns about the overall state of healthcare services in remote areas like Hut Bay. Patients who are already vulnerable and require medical attention must not be left without food, especially in a time when adequate nutrition is crucial for their recovery. It is hoped that the authorities take immediate action to resolve this matter and ensure that patients in Hut Bay receive the necessary care and support they require.
