PONDA: Nirankal, Gawalwara locals have demanded that the sub health centre be shifted to either the government primary school or forest department building here as it is unable to cater to the growing number of patients.
The sub-health centre here has been functioning in rented rooms for the last four decades and caters to over 10 villages in its jurisdiction with a population of around 6,000. The patients coming for treatment are forced to stand outside the centre due to lack of space at the Out Patient Department (OPD) and casualty.
“On many occasions, senior citizens, expectant mothers, women with little children have no place to sit and are forced to stand in the open come rain or shine,” said a villager.
During the rains, the roof leaks, causing inconvenience to staff as well as patients.
The sub health centre’s operations are carried out under the guidance of Shiroda Primary Health Centre and people from Nirankal, Gawalwada, Maine, Kumbharwada, Shignewhal, Saterimal, Bibalwada, Conshe, Kasamshel and other areas visit the place for minor health issues. The crowd is considerably more on Wednesdays and many doctors come here.
On the other four days, about four health workers provide basic care to around 15-20 patients. But, lack of space in the centre forces patients to wait outside.
