Diglipur, June 9: The Gram Panchayat of Kalighat has urged the A&N Administration to immediately address staff shortages and infrastructure deficiencies at the Primary Health Centre (PHC), warning that the current situation is adversely affecting healthcare services for residents across several villages in North Andaman.
In a representation submitted to the Secretary (Health), A&N Administration, the Panchayat highlighted the non-availability of essential technical staff on all working days, vacancies among nursing personnel, inadequate housekeeping arrangements and the absence of a backup power system at the health centre.
According to the representation, Kalighat PHC serves as the primary healthcare facility for residents of Kalighat, Jagannath Dera, Nabagram, Ramnagar and Nischintapur. The Panchayat stated that despite sanctioned permanent postings, several key technical personnel are not available throughout the week.
The Lab Technician reportedly remains available only four days a week, while the X-ray Technician attends duties for only three days. Similarly, the Ophthalmic Assistant is available only two days a week, creating difficulties for patients requiring diagnostic and specialist services.
The Panchayat noted that during emergencies, patients are often unable to access essential investigations such as laboratory tests and X-ray services. As a result, villagers are compelled to travel nearly 25 kilometres to Diglipur for basic diagnostic facilities, causing hardship, delays and additional expenses.
The representation further stated that Kalighat PHC is functioning with only four Nursing Officers against nine sanctioned posts, leaving five vacancies unfilled. According to the Panchayat, the shortage often affects afternoon shift coverage, particularly when existing staff members proceed on leave.
The Panchayat has also sought departmental attention regarding allegations against a Nursing Officer who is reportedly absent from duty on frequent occasions. The representation additionally requested an inquiry into allegations that the staff member attends duties under the influence of alcohol, stating that the matter concerns patient safety and institutional discipline.
Apart from staffing issues, the Panchayat highlighted the lack of a diesel generator backup system at the PHC. It stated that power outages disrupt healthcare services and affect the functioning of medical equipment, creating additional challenges for patients and healthcare workers.
Housekeeping services have also been flagged as inadequate. The Panchayat informed the Administration that only one permanent housekeeping staff member is available at the facility, which it described as insufficient for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene standards in a healthcare institution catering to multiple villages.
Seeking urgent intervention, the Panchayat requested the Administration to ensure the regular presence of the Lab Technician, X-ray Technician and Ophthalmic Assistant on all working days. It also urged authorities to expedite recruitment against the five vacant Nursing Officer posts and ensure proper staffing for all shifts.
The Panchayat further called for additional housekeeping staff, installation of a DG backup power unit and measures to ensure that all sanctioned healthcare facilities remain fully functional and accessible to the public.
In its appeal, the Panchayat emphasized that residents of Kalighat and adjoining villages depend heavily on the PHC for routine and emergency healthcare services. It stated that uninterrupted medical services are essential for the well-being of the local population and requested urgent consideration of the issues raised.
The Health Department has not yet issued a response to the representation.
