Will TN's Katpadi Welcome Its First Government Hospital?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- First full-fledged government hospital in Katpadi.
- 60-bed facility equipped with advanced medical technologies.
- Includes dedicated wards for various medical conditions.
- Modern amenities such as lifts and a rainwater harvesting system.
- Improved public transport to enhance accessibility.
Chennai, June 15 (NationPress) Chief Minister M.K. Stalin is set to inaugurate the inaugural full-service government taluk hospital in Serkadu village, located in the Vellore district, on June 25.
This facility, costing Rs 14.30 crore and constructed by the Public Works Department (PWD), is in the final stages of completion, with finishing touches being applied. According to PWD Assistant Engineer K. Sundar from the Katpadi division, this new 60-bed hospital features cutting-edge medical technology, including ECG units, CT scan services, and operational surgical theatres.
The hospital guarantees a constant power supply, supported by diesel generators. Currently, the only government healthcare option in Katpadi is an outdated Primary Health Centre (PHC), operating daily from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. except on Sundays.
On average, this PHC manages 500-700 outpatient visits daily, with many patients being referred to Adukkamparai for specialized care. The new taluk hospital spans 15 acres and comprises various departments, including cardiology, neurology, paediatrics, nephrology, obstetrics, and gynaecology.
It includes dedicated wards for emergency and accident cases, cancer treatment, sedation, and radiology, as well as five consultation rooms for outpatient services.
Modern civic amenities have been integrated, featuring two lifts (one for patients and another for staff), drinking water facilities, and restrooms on each floor, along with a rainwater harvesting system and solar panels for lighting.
To enhance accessibility, the facility offers designated parking for two-wheelers and cars, along with 24x7 surveillance via CCTV cameras.
Health department officials have announced improvements to public bus services to the hospital to provide better connectivity for patients and visitors.
The inauguration will coincide with CM Stalin’s two-day visit to Ranipet, Vellore, and Tirupattur districts on June 25 and 26. During this trip, he will also distribute welfare assistance to beneficiaries of government schemes and review ongoing development projects.
Local residents have expressed their support for this new establishment, describing it as an essential healthcare resource for the community. The region comprises over 40 farming villages, and until now, residents had to travel more than 15 km for advanced medical services at the Government Medical College Hospital in Adukkamparai, located on the outskirts of Vellore.