The much-awaited Cancer Care Unit at MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Odisha’s Berhampur is yet to become operational despite missing its completion deadline by nearly two years, forcing cancer patients to continue relying on hospitals in Bhubaneswar and other states for treatment.
The delay has raised concerns as thousands of people from 10 districts of southern Odisha and neighbouring states depend on MKCG Medical College for healthcare services.
Construction of the state-of-the-art Cancer Care Unit began in 2022 to address the growing demand for specialised cancer treatment. The four-storey facility is designed to accommodate 60 beds, including 20 beds each for male and female patients and another 20 beds for palliative care.
A Kolkata-based private company was awarded the construction contract worth Rs 67 crore, with the project originally scheduled for completion by September 2024. However, even after nearly two years beyond the deadline, the project remains unfinished. The estimated project cost has also increased by over Rs 10 crore, yet the construction is still incomplete.
As a result, patients travelling from distant areas are returning disappointed due to the lack of advanced cancer treatment facilities. Many are compelled to seek treatment in Bhubaneswar or other hospitals across the country.
“There is no facility for cancer patients in Berhampur. There are no doctors or trained operators to run the equipment,”
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