Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct. 30: A newly constructed operation theatre at District Hospital, Garacharma, was inaugurated on October 29 by Lieutenant Governor Dr. Dinesh Sharma, alongside the handover of eight ventilators and three portable X-ray machines for health centres, as the administration moves to strengthen surgical, diagnostic and critical care services across the islands.
The new facility is expected to improve access to surgical and maternity services for residents of South Andaman district and reduce unnecessary referrals to higher medical centres. Its operational commencement marks an addition to the district hospital’s capacity to provide treatment locally.
The equipment handed over during the inauguration is intended to strengthen critical care and diagnostic facilities, particularly in remote areas. The eight ventilators will support critical care requirements, while the three portable handheld X-ray machines will expand diagnostic capabilities at various health centres.
Following the inauguration, Sharma inspected the ongoing expansion of the hospital’s Critical Care Unit Block and directed the authorities concerned to expedite its completion while maintaining construction quality.
The expansion comes alongside the commissioning of the operation theatre, with the Critical Care Unit Block forming part of the hospital’s ongoing infrastructure development. The Lieutenant Governor’s inspection focused on the pace and quality of the remaining work.
The availability of surgical and maternity services at the district hospital is particularly relevant for patients who otherwise require referrals to higher medical facilities. The new operation theatre is expected to make these services more accessible within South Andaman, although the administration has not provided details on its surgical capacity or the range of procedures it will undertake.
The inauguration was attended by Member of Parliament Bishnu Pada Ray, Chief Secretary Gyanesh Bharti, Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Health), Secretary (Health), Deputy Commissioner, South Andaman, Superintendent of Police, South Andaman, and senior Health Department officials.
Doctors, nursing officers and other healthcare personnel were also present at the event.
