Why Are Gardez Residents Struggling with Closed Hospital?
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Synopsis
As the summer heat intensifies, Gardez residents face a healthcare crisis with the closure of their local hospital. They urge the Taliban administration to reopen the facility as cases of infectious diseases surge amidst financial hardship. What can be done to address this pressing issue?
Key Takeaways
- Gardez residents are facing a healthcare crisis due to the hospital's closure.
- Many cannot afford private medical care, increasing their vulnerability.
- The local hospital has been closed for several months, worsening health issues.
- Authorities are working to find a new donor for the hospital.
- US aid cuts have negatively impacted Afghanistan's healthcare system.
Kabul, July 12 (NationPress) In Afghanistan's Gardez city, residents are pleading with the Taliban administration to reactivate the local hospital as infectious diseases have surged this summer.
Due to financial constraints, many cannot afford treatment at private facilities, leaving the 50-bed Gardez hospital shuttered for months.
“We urgently need the infectious diseases hospital to reopen. Illnesses are on the rise, particularly with the hot weather causing more cases of coughing and shortness of breath,” reported Asadullah, a local resident from Paktia, to Afghan media outlet Tolonews.
Another resident, Mohammad Khan, expressed, “People can’t even manage transportation costs or buy necessary medicines. Our plea to the government is to reopen this hospital for the benefit of the community and the underprivileged.”
Authorities in Paktia claim that efforts are underway to resume operations at the 50-bed infectious diseases hospital.
“The previous contract for the hospital was with a donor that has now concluded. We are in the process of securing a new contract with another donor so that the hospital can serve the Paktia populace,” stated Inamullah Salahuddin, the Deputy Governor of Paktia.
The cessation of US aid to Afghanistan has had negative repercussions on the healthcare sector. During a recent visit to Paktia province, the administrative deputy of the Ministry of Public Health underscored the critical need for healthcare services nationwide.
Residents of Gardez are increasingly alarmed by the growing health issues, especially in the summer months, exacerbating the spread of infectious diseases. Many highlight that the high costs associated with private healthcare make the ongoing closure of the state hospital a dire situation for those with limited financial resources.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the dire healthcare challenges faced by the residents of Gardez. The ongoing closure of the local hospital not only exacerbates health issues but also highlights the systemic problems within the healthcare infrastructure. The government must prioritize the reopening of facilities to ensure accessible healthcare for all citizens, particularly the most vulnerable.
NationPress
13/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current health situation in Gardez?
Residents are facing a surge in infectious diseases due to the closure of the local hospital, making healthcare inaccessible for many.
Why is the Gardez hospital still closed?
The hospital remains closed due to the expiration of its contract with a donor, and efforts are underway to secure new funding.
How are residents coping with the closure?
Many residents are unable to afford private healthcare and are pleading with the government to reopen the state hospital.
What actions are being taken by the authorities?
Paktia authorities have stated that they are working on awarding a new contract to ensure the hospital can reopen.
How has US aid cut affected healthcare in Afghanistan?
The cessation of US aid has significantly impacted the healthcare sector, leading to challenges in maintaining hospital operations.
