Angul, Aug. 16 (UDN): Angul district marked Independence Day with a major expansion of public healthcare facilities, including the inauguration of a 10-bed ICU, three modular operation theatres and advanced diagnostic equipment at the District Headquarters Hospital (DHH).
Pic Credit: x.com/HFWOdisha
Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Minister Rabi Narayan Naik, who hoisted the National Flag at the district-level Independence Day celebration at the Angul Police Training Centre, inaugurated the new healthcare facilities at the DHH later in the day.
Pic Credit: x.com/HFWOdisha
New ICU, Modular Operation Theatres
The upgraded facilities at the district hospital include three modern modular operation theatres and a 10-bed Intensive Care Unit.
The hospital has also received an echocardiography (Echo) machine and an endoscopy machine, along with a dedicated rest house for patient attendants.
The additions are expected to strengthen critical care, surgical services and diagnostic facilities at the district hospital, reducing the need for patients to travel outside the district for specialised treatment.
Free Ambulance Service for Remote Villages
A key highlight of the healthcare expansion was the launch of the ‘Jeevan Sathi’ Auto Ambulance Service.
The free, round-the-clock emergency transport service will cater specifically to pregnant women and children below five years of age across 44 villages in Chhendipada, Palalahada, Kaniha and Athmallik blocks.
The initiative has been jointly launched by the district administration and the Health & Family Welfare Department with the aim of improving access to emergency medical care in remote and underserved areas.
Minister Reviews Hospital Services
During his visit to the DHH, Naik interacted with doctors and healthcare workers and appreciated their efforts in serving patients. He also distributed fruits among hospitalised patients.
The Minister later attended a voluntary blood donation camp at the hospital and urged young people to make blood donation a regular social responsibility.
Focus on Public Service and Welfare
Naik also inspected the Angul District Jail and reviewed measures related to inmate welfare. He stressed the importance of rehabilitation and said prisons should focus on reform and helping inmates return to society with dignity.
Addressing the Independence Day gathering earlier, the Minister highlighted Angul’s contribution to Odisha’s freedom movement and urged people to uphold patriotism, unity and public service while contributing to the state’s development.
Angul MLA Pratap Chandra Pradhan, senior district officials, police personnel and health department officials accompanied the Minister during the programmes.