PGIMER Chandigarh to unveil Rs 1,200‑crore healthcare infrastructure projects

The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) outlined the significance of the landmark healthcare infrastructure projects to be dedicated to the nation by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to the city on July 17.

Addressing mediapersons, Prof Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, said, “These centres are not merely new buildings; they represent a transformational leap in our ability to deliver advanced, accessible and affordable healthcare to millions of patients across Northern India.”

The PM will inaugurate the Advanced Mother and Child Centre (AMCC) and the Advanced Neurosciences Centre (ANC), besides laying the foundation stone of the 150-bed Critical Care Hospital Block under the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission. Together, these projects represent an investment of nearly Rs 1,200 crore and will significantly strengthen tertiary healthcare, medical education and advanced research.

“Constructed at a cost of Rs 505 crore, the AMCC has been equipped with state-of-the-art technology. The 300-bed facility features advanced neonatal intensive care units, modular operation theatres and comprehensive maternal and neonatal services under one roof. It is expected to further strengthen PGIMER’s capacity to manage over 6,000 high-risk deliveries annually,” said Prof Lal.

He said, “The Infosys Foundation made a contribution of Rs 147 crore towards advanced medical equipment. This exemplary public-private partnership has significantly strengthened our capacity to deliver cutting-edge healthcare and will benefit patients for generations to come.”

The ANC, also a 300-bed facility, integrates neurology, neurosurgery, neuroradiology, neuroanaesthesia, neurocritical care and rehabilitation services. Equipped with 61 intensive care beds, modular operating theatres and advanced diagnostic facilities, the centre will significantly strengthen the management of complex neurological disorders.

Highlighting its significance, Prof Lal observed, “The new centre will substantially reduce treatment delays and improve survival and long-term neurological outcomes.”

The Critical Care Hospital Block will be developed at an estimated cost of Rs 244 crore. Conceived in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the facility will enhance emergency preparedness and multidisciplinary critical care services.

Speaking on the growing patient load, Prof Lal remarked, “The increasing number of patients coming to the PGIMER is not a burden, but a reflection of the trust people place in this institution. We consider it our responsibility to continuously expand our infrastructure and improve services so that no patient is deprived of quality healthcare.” The Tribune