Bhattakufar–Chamiyana Super Specialty Hospital Road in Poor Condition, Causing Hardship to Patients and Staff
The road connecting Bhattakufar to the Super Specialty Hospital at Chamiyana on the outskirts of Shimla has been damaged at several places due to heavy rainfall. Potholes, mud, and frequent landslides are creating serious difficulties for patients, their attendants, and hospital staff commuting on the route.
In a statement issued on Friday, Himachal Kisan Sabha State President Dr. Kuldeep Tanwar accused the Public Works Department (PWD) of negligence. He said that unscientific tree felling and near-vertical (around 90-degree) hill cutting during the road-widening work have led to continuous landslides. As a result, several trees have become unstable and now pose a threat to commuters.
Dr. Tanwar noted that the Hon’ble High Court had directed the timely completion of the road-widening project. He said that around 45 trees were felled to widen the road, but despite this, the road has not been properly improved.
He further stated that thousands of patients from across Himachal Pradesh visit the Chamiyana Super Specialty Hospital every day for treatment. Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers also use this route regularly. The deteriorating condition of the road is causing significant inconvenience to patients, caregivers, and hospital employees. He warned that continued landslides and the risk of falling trees could lead to a major accident at any time.
Dr. Tanwar urged the Chief Minister and the Public Works Minister to intervene immediately and ensure prompt repair and safety measures on the road. He warned that if proper maintenance is not carried out in a time-bound manner, the Himachal Kisan Sabha would be compelled to stage a protest at the hospital premises.
PWD’s Response
Responding to the concerns, Naveen Kaundal, Executive Engineer, PWD Shimla, said that approximately 700 meters of the road stretch between Bhattakufar and Chamiyana Hospital is fully motorable, and vehicular movement is continuing normally. He added that the trees fallen along the roadside fall under the jurisdiction of the Forest Department, and any action regarding them should be taken by the concerned department.
