Days after power outage, Rajindra Hospital gets new 11 kV supply line

Patiala, July 27

Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh today inaugurated an 11 kV power supply line at Government Rajindra Hospital in Patiala.

The Opposition had slammed the government after the medical institute faced a three-hour power cut on July 20, which left several patients and their attendants at the receiving end. Even the doctors had to perform C-section surgeries using a flashlight of mobile phone .

Dr Girish Sahni, Medical Superintendent, Rajindra Hospital, said the power outage between 8.05 pm and 10.56 pm on July 20 was due to delay in refueling of 20 generators.

Diarrhoea outbreak in Patiala

• Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh also inspected dengue and diarrhoea wards at the hospital
• Nearly 200 persons fell ill while two persons reportedly died after drinking contaminated water
• So far, four diarrhoea outbreaks have been witnessed in the past one month in the district

Following the incident, Dr Balbir conducted a high-level meeting. A snag in the underground cable turned out to be the reason behind the power outage. Thus, it was decided to have an alternate hotline to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply.

The minister said the new power line, sourced from 66 kV old Patiala electricity grid, would resolve the electricity issues at the hospital. Additionally, another 11 kV line from Shakti Vihar is set to become operational soon.

He said 20 generators with additional diesel reserves are kept on standby.