Team Herald
MARGAO: The Green Goa Foundation (GGF) has raised serious concerns about the state of the South Goa District Hospital, alleging contamination, unhygienic conditions, and a shortage of essential supplies such as bed linen. However, hospital officials have denied these claims, asserting that the facility maintains high standards of cleanliness and adequate provisions.
On September 3, GGF Chairman Raison Almeida sent a letter to Health Minister Vishwajit Rane, highlighting the deteriorating conditions at the hospital. The letter was accompanied by photos supporting their allegations of unhygienic conditions and a shortage of linen.
Almeida expressed particular concern for the health of patients, noting the significant risk of infection due to a cockroach infestation in the bedside cabinets. He claimed that cockroaches were not only found in cabinets but were also seen roaming on the walls of the wards, especially around the garbage bins that were not emptied regularly. “Most of the toilet flushes are not in working condition. There is an acute shortage of bedsheets and pillows in the wards, particularly in the female medicine ward. Each patient is given only one bedsheet and even if the bedsheet is soiled, the patient is not provided with another bedsheet. Many patients are forced to arrange their own bed sheets or bring bedding from home,” said GGF.
In response, Dr Rajendra Borkar, the Medical Superintendent of the South Goa District Hospital, strongly refuted the allegations. He emphasised that the hospital had recently been recognised by the National Quality Assessment Standards for providing exemplary healthcare services. Dr Borkar invited interested parties to visit the hospital to witness the cleanliness and services firsthand, arguing that the allegations were unfounded.
Dr Borkar also remarked that while anyone searching specifically for cockroaches may find them, it does not reflect the overall standards of hygiene at the hospital.