Major Healthcare Boost for Tribal Communities in Mysuru Region
In a significant development for tribal communities residing near protected forest areas, the Hanur Town Primary Health Centre (PHC) will undergo a major transformation. The state government has officially sanctioned its upgrade into a fully functional 50-bedded taluk hospital. This move directly addresses the healthcare needs of people living along the borders of the BRT Tiger Reserve and the MM Hills Wildlife Sanctuary.
New Health Centers Approved for Remote Forest Areas
Alongside the Hanur hospital upgrade, the government has approved the establishment of two new Primary Health Centres. These will serve the remote villages of Gopinatham and Odeyarapalya. Additionally, the existing PG Palya PHC has received an upgrade to a Community Health Centre (CHC). Health authorities have already initiated preparatory work for all these projects.
This decision fulfills a demand that residents of Hanur taluk have voiced for many years. A substantial portion of this taluk falls within the MM Hills Wildlife Sanctuary. Development in this ecologically rich but backward region of Chamarajanagar district had stalled for nearly two decades. Security concerns related to the late forest brigand Veerappan and other factors contributed to this delay.
From Announcement to Implementation
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah first announced the upgrade of the Hanur PHC during a special cabinet meeting held atop MM Hills last year. The state health department has now granted formal administrative approval, moving the project from promise to reality.
Although Hanur received taluk status a decade ago, the town's hospital had not seen corresponding improvements. Former MLAs Parimala Nagappa and R Narendra had consistently advocated for better healthcare infrastructure. Current MLA MR Manjunatha has also actively pushed for additional hospitals in the region.
The government specifically considered the geographical challenges when approving the new PHCs at Gopinatham and Odeyarapalya, and upgrading PG Palya. These areas are located deep within the forests of the BRT, MM Hills, and Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary.
Relief for Communities Facing Long Travel Distances
The new healthcare facilities will dramatically reduce travel burdens for local residents. Madegowda, vice-president of the Chamarajanagar Soliga Tribal Welfare Association, explained the previous difficulties. "This move brings significant relief to residents and tribal communities in Gopinatham and Odeyarapalya," he said. "Earlier, people had to travel between 50 and 150 kilometers to reach hospitals in Kollegal, Chamarajanagar, or Mysuru for medical treatment. This was true even during emergencies."
Next Steps in Implementation
District Health Officer Dr. Chidambar outlined the immediate next steps. Following administrative approval, the health department will soon float tenders for several crucial components:
- Construction of new hospital buildings
- Procurement of modern medical equipment
- Deployment of required medical and support staff
These projects represent a substantial investment in healthcare infrastructure for some of Karnataka's most remote and underserved communities. They promise to improve health outcomes and accessibility for thousands of tribal residents who have historically faced significant barriers to medical care.
