In limbo since 2022, Rs 832-cr medical college project in Sirsa gathers steam
The much-awaited expansion of healthcare facilities in Sirsa is finally taking shape as the government has approved the construction of a medical college. Residents of Sirsa have for long been demanding better healthcare services. Efforts for this project were initiated by former BJP MLA Gopal Kanda, with Congress MLA Gokul Setia recently amplifying the demand.
The foundation stone for the medical college was virtually laid by President Droupadi Murmu during a programme in Kurukshetra on November 28, 2022. This milestone marked a significant achievement for the region. While the tender process began soon after, the enforcement of the election code of conduct during the Haryana Assembly elections caused delays in construction.
Funds approved for contractor at meeting
- Under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, the High-Powered Purchase Committee meeting on November 5 approved contracts and items worth Rs 2,050 crore.
- Among these, an amount of Rs 832 crore was approved for the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor for Baba Sarasai Nath Government Medical College in Sirsa.
- The target is to complete the project in 24 months. The medical college will accommodate 500 beds.
Before the Assembly elections, the then MLA, Gopal Kanda, had met Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, urging for swift action to commence the project. The Chief Minister assured that construction would begin soon. At a recent meeting of the High Purchase Committee chaired by the CM, the necessary funds were approved, and plans for tender finalisation were expedited.
The medical college, to be built at an estimated cost of Rs 832 crore, will include 500 beds and is expected to cater to the healthcare needs of Sirsa and surrounding areas. This will reduce dependence on cities like Hisar, Delhi and Jaipur for medical services.
Udaybhan, Technical Adviser of Health Department, has already inspected the site and initiated land preparation, including cleaning and levelling, to ensure a smooth progress once construction begins.
Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini is expected to visit Sirsa soon to perform the ‘bhoomi pujan’. The construction is projected to be completed within two years. Once operational, the college will significantly boost healthcare services in the region while also providing opportunities for medical education.
Former MLA Gopal Kanda and senior BJP leader Gobind Kanda have expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for advancing the project.
