Changanassery: Health Minister Veena George will inaugurate the newly completed Ophthalmology Operation Theatre, Sewage Treatment Plant, the under-construction KIIFB-funded building, and the new Ortho-Physiotherapy block at the General Hospital on August 16 at 9:30 am.

Construction begins
The construction of the new building, funded with ₹80 crore from the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB), is progressing rapidly. Concreting of the ground floor is scheduled to begin the following day. The five-storey building will house four operation theatres, a minor operation theatre, a chemotherapy and dialysis unit, wards, a patient lounge, and a central sterile supply unit. Work has also begun on a 4.5-lakh-litre capacity water tank for the building.

Ortho-Physiotherapy block
The Ortho-Physiotherapy block is being constructed under the NHM’s Aardram Mission. This two-storey facility will house the Orthopaedics and Physiotherapy departments on the ground floor, and the Ophthalmology and Dermatology departments on the first floor. The laser treatment unit for excessive hair growth will also be shifted to this block. Changanassery General Hospital is the only government hospital in the district to offer this service.

Ophthalmology Operation Theatre
Located on the second floor of the maternity block, the new Ophthalmology OT has been completed with ₹1 crore in funding from NHM. Installation of a surgical microscope and other essential equipment will follow shortly.

Sewage Treatment Plant
The newly installed plant will treat sewage from the hospital and its wards, including kitchen waste. Around 1.25 lakh litres of wastewater will be treated scientifically every day, eliminating stench and contamination. The treated water will be recycled for reuse, ensuring eco-friendly waste management.

Commenting on the new projects, MLA Job Michael said these developments will transform Changanassery General Hospital into the best hospital in the entire district. “The construction of the new buildings is progressing very fast. These development projects will help us provide the best treatment to patients using the most modern equipment,” said Dr Praseetha, Superintendent, Changanassery General Hospital.