- MOKOKCHUNG — The Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) has issued an urgent demand for the
Nagaland state government to form a Technical Evaluation Committee by May 31,
to probe the alleged substandard construction of Dr. Imkongliba Memorial
District Hospital (IMDH) in Mokokchung.
- Citing significant delays, poor-quality materials, and
structural flaws, AKM warned that the hospital’s current state poses serious
risks to patients and medical personnel.
- In a letter addressed to the Principal Director, Department
of Health & Family Welfare, the AKM expressed discontent over the project, sanctioned in
January 2018 under the National Health Mission with a INR 13.70 crore budget
and a 36-month timeline to complete both building blocks.
- Despite these provisions, the construction of Block A
remains incomplete, with Block B yet to commence. “The progress is alarmingly
slow, and substandard materials have been used, deviating from the Detailed
Project Report (DPR),” the letter stated.
Also read: Ao Students’ Conference demands urgent probe into substandard construction of Imkongliba Memorial District Hospital
- AKM stated that frequent visits and inspections have been
conducted by various CSOs, and numerous complaints have been raised regarding
the materials used; yet, the construction does not appear to follow the
approved DPR.
- AKM further stated
that an inspection on May 21, revealed plaster peeling off walls and cracks
spanning from the ground to the top floor, raising concerns about the
building’s safety.
- “The construction lacks quality control and could collapse
during a natural disaster,” it noted, emphasising that hospitals must meet the
highest safety standards. Previous inspections by civil society organisations
echoed similar complaints, yet no corrective action has been taken.
- AKM highlighted the broader impact, noting that IMDH serves
not only Mokokchung but also neighbouring districts. “The delay is a grave
concern for patients who depend on this hospital,” it said.
