Vikramaditya
Sri Vijaya Puram, July 11: The absence of a blood bank unit at Dr. R.P. Hospital, Mayabunder — the key healthcare center for North & Middle Andaman — has emerged as a serious gap in the region’s medical infrastructure. Despite the construction of a new multi-crore extension building, the hospital still lacks a dedicated blood bank facility, leaving patients and their families in distress during emergencies.
Former Pramukh and local leader Mr. Abdul Siddique has raised strong concern over the issue and while talking to Andaman Sheekha has appealed to the district administration and the health department for urgent intervention. “There are many willing blood donors in Mayabunder, but the hospital authorities say they cannot accept blood due to the non-availability of a blood bank unit,” he stated.
He added that in times of emergency — especially in cases involving rare blood groups — patients are forced to run from pillar to post to arrange blood. The situation becomes extremely critical and life-threatening. A fully operational blood bank is the only sustainable solution to this recurring crisis.”
Mr. Siddique stressed that the absence of such a vital facility not only puts lives at risk but also discourages the spirit of voluntary blood donation among local residents. “Many youth groups and social volunteers are willing to donate blood regularly, but in the absence of proper infrastructure, their goodwill goes in vain,” he said.
Calling the issue a basic healthcare necessity, he urged authorities to immediately establish a blood bank unit at Dr. R.P. Hospital, Mayabunder, for the welfare of the public and to strengthen the emergency medical response system in the region.
