100-bed Civil Hospital to push healthcare services in Shillai
In a significant step towards improving healthcare infrastructure in remote regions, Industries, Parliamentary Affairs and Labour & Employment Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan performed the groundbreaking ceremony for a new 100-bed Civil Hospital in Shillai. The project, with an estimated cost of Rs 19 crore, is expected to be completed soon, providing much-needed medical facilities to the residents of the area.
Addressing the gathering, minister Chauhan emphasised the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare services in rural areas under the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. He stated that the development of infrastructure and staff augmentation in hospitals located in far-flung regions is a priority, ensuring that residents no longer have to travel long distances for medical treatment.
“The strengthening of medical institutions in the state will ensure that villagers, particularly those facing financial constraints, receive timely medical care,” said minister Chauhan. He highlighted that the expansion of Shillai Civil Hospital is crucial, as patients from remote areas often seek treatment here. To further enhance healthcare services, vacant positions of specialist doctors and nursing staff in the hospital will be filled promptly.
The minister also noted that a 100-bed hospital in Shillai would significantly reduce the need for patients to travel outside the region for treatment. In addition, he recently inaugurated a Rs 25 lakh digital X-ray plant at the Civil Hospital, which now enables residents to avail themselves of advanced colour X-ray services within the facility.
Apart from healthcare, minister Chauhan reiterated the government’s dedication to enhancing educational infrastructure in the constituency. He stated that approximately 300 vacant teaching positions in educational institutions across the region have been filled, ensuring that students receive quality education.
Recognising the growing importance of Shillai as an emerging town, the minister announced its designation as a nagar panchayat (municipal council) to facilitate planned development. A detailed project report (DPR) of Rs 68 crore has been submitted for approval, out of which Rs 28 crore is earmarked for a sewerage system and Rs 30 crore for improving water supply and other urban amenities.
Minister Chauhan also revealed that developmental projects worth nearly Rs 250 crore are currently underway in the Shillai Assembly Constituency. These projects encompass road networks, irrigation systems, drinking water supply, education, healthcare, and electricity infrastructure. Upon completion, these initiatives are expected to significantly enhance the quality of life for the residents of the region.
Following the groundbreaking ceremony, the minister conducted a public grievances session at the Public Works Department’s Shillai Rest House, where he interacted with locals and addressed their concerns.
Himachal Tribune