In a bid to revolutionise healthcare in Assam, the ambitious Pragjyotishpur Medical College and Hospital project kicked off in 2022 with a staggering investment exceeding Rs 998.30 crore, and is now facing unexpected delays. The symbolic foundation stone laying and promises of a full-scale operation by 2024 have given way to a cloud of uncertainty surrounding the project's current status.
The endeavour, boasting a hefty investment exceeding Rs 998.30 crore and sprawling across 20 acres, is a beacon of anticipated progress. However, the question remains:
Has it begun its essential operations? Is the construction work wrapped up, or does it linger in a state of ongoing evolution? The pressing query persists: When will it be completed?
The transformation of Mahendra Mohan Choudhury Hospital (MMCH) and the establishment of Pragjyotishpur Medical College promise significant advancements, not only in upgrading existing facilities but also in fostering an environment conducive to cutting-edge research across various medical disciplines. The pivotal construction work for the 800-bed Mahendra Mohan Choudhury Hospital began on January 1, 2022, signalling a crucial step in this transformative journey.
Construction And Upgrades Of MMCH
L&T Construction, a subsidiary of Larsen & Toubro Limited, a prominent Indian multinational conglomerate, has taken charge of the construction, ensuring the integration of state-of-the-art technology and modern construction techniques. The Mahendra Mohan Choudhury Hospital, designed to accommodate 800 beds, is scheduled for completion by 2025, with L&T Construction committed to delivering cutting-edge medical facilities.
Speaking to GPlus, a senior official from L&T Construction revealed, "The project involves merging the MMCH and Kalapahar TB Hospital campuses to establish a new medical college."
Kalapahar Campus Developments
The Kalapahar campus is set to house comprehensive medical education facilities, including academic buildings with multiple departments and 430 beds with ICUs for critical care. Additionally, the campus will feature three hostels catering to undergraduate students and interns.
MMCH Campus Update
The MMCH campus is undergoing significant upgrades, including the installation of four integrated Operation Theatres (OTs). The Panbazar-based MMCH building is evolving into a modern marvel, featuring a main building connected to four towers and additional residential buildings for staff and doctors with a towering structure of G+17 and 14 floors. Another building, dedicated to helpers and servants, will stand at G+10.
Larsen & Toubro Limited's construction arm has had an impressive track record, having recently secured a contract for a 12.21-kilometer-long bridge in Assam connecting Palashbari and Sualkuchi towns. The conglomerate has actively participated in various city projects, including the renovation of the Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH).
A senior official from L&T Construction reiterated their commitment, assuring, "The project is expected to be completed by 2025." Noting initial plans, the official mentioned, "The MMCH buildings were initially supposed to feature bamboo cladding, but due to cost considerations, we opted for aluminium cladding."
Elaborating on the Kalapahar campus, the official further stated, "The academic building will house at least 7 to 8 departments, facilitating comprehensive medical education. Additionally, the Kalapahar campus will have 430 beds and ICUs, ensuring the availability of critical care facilities for patients. The academic building will also feature three hostels, two for undergraduate students and one for interns."
Pragjyotishpur Medical College and Hospital
The Pragjyotishpur Medical College and Hospital, a culmination of MMCH and Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi Chest Hospital at Kahilipara, is anticipated to cost over Rs 1000 crore. With campuses in Panbazar and Kalapahar, it aims to become the second major medical institute in the state capital after the Gauhati Medical College and Hospital. However, the current uncertainty surrounding its completion raises concerns about the realization of this ambitious healthcare initiative.