Mumbai: Chota Sion Hospital dialysis centre remains shut months after scheduled launch

Dr Pramod Ingale, dean, Sion Hospital

The dialysis centre at Chota Sion Hospital remains shut due to bureaucratic delays. The facility, scheduled to become operational in May, is now expected to open only after at least another month, forcing patients to wait longer for affordable dialysis services at the civic-run hospital.

PPP roadblock

The facility is being set up under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The proposal was delayed after BMC's Suggestions Committee sought the work history of the private agency selected to operate the centre. "The committee's response came much later than expected, further delaying the approval process," said Dr Pramod Ingale, dean, Sion Hospital.

Site inspection

As part of the committee's requirements, hospital authorities inspected facilities where the selected vendor already operates dialysis services. The inspection report has been prepared and, along with other required documents, will be submitted to the BMC head office for final approval.

Clearance pending

"The dialysis centre is ready from our end in terms of beds and machinery, but the project is being implemented under the PPP model, which requires multiple administrative approvals. Once we receive the necessary clearance, the dialysis centre can be made operational. We expect the process to take at least another month," the dean told mid-day. The delay means the facility, expected to open in May, is now likely to open after a four-month wait.