Renovated hospital falls into ruin due to neglect

In a shocking tale of neglect and apathy, one of the oldest hospitals in the city has deteriorated into a neglected, haunted shell, just four years after its renovation at a staggering cost of Rs 2.34 crore.

The historic building, once known as the Princess of Wales Zenana Hospital in Dhab Khatika, carries a rich legacy, with its foundation stone being laid by Lady Chemsford, wife of the then Viceroy of India, on April 17, 1917. A visit to the hospital reveals a disturbing reality. Sanitary fittings, aluminum doors, windows and other valuable items have disappeared, allegedly stolen by drug addicts to fund their daily fixes. Since renovation, the hospital now serves as a stark reminder of the authorities’ neglect and indifference.

The ramp and the entire first floor of the building have become a shelter for stray dogs, with their excreta scattered everywhere. The overpowering stench in the area is so intense that even the most daring would hesitate to enter the complex.

The building’s downfall is a clear reminder of the neglect and abandonment that often plague historic structures. Despite its rich history and cultural significance, the Princess of Wales Zenana Hospital is slowly being consumed by decay and neglect, with no sign of restoration in sight.

Currently, the Municipal Corporation operates a dispensary, while the Punjab Health Systems Corporation (PHSC) runs an Urban Community Health Centre in separate blocks of the building. Originally under the control of the MC, the building was to be converted into a 30-bed hospital by the PHSC in 2017.

After the renovation was completed, the MC, however, refused to hand over the building to the PHSC. Both departments eventually decided to jointly run the medical centre. This lack of clear responsibility seems to have contributed to the hospital’s current condition. Senior Medical Officer at the MC dispensary, Dr Geeta Chawla, expressed frustration at the state of affairs, saying, “We are tired of filing complaints with the police. Almost everything has been stolen by the drug addicts.” Shockingly, even the aluminum windows of her office were stolen, and have now been covered with plywood, she said.