PGI Chandigarh Canteens to Resume Full Service After LPG Shortage Resolution
Full catering services across the public and doctors' canteens at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGI) in Chandigarh are expected to resume by Tuesday. This development follows an assurance from local gas agencies to resolve a persistent LPG shortage that had severely impacted food operations at the institute.
Intervention by Association of Resident Doctors
The Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) stepped in after a gas deficit forced several outlets, including essential OPD canteens, to suspend operations or drastically limit their menus. The shortage previously crippled the institute's food services, compelling contractors to rely on induction cooktops that proved incapable of handling the high-volume demand of a tertiary care centre.
While some canteens remained open with limited meal options, others were forced to shut down entirely for several days, causing significant inconvenience to patients' attendants and medical staff alike. A canteen contractor highlighted the critical need for LPG supply, stating, "We cannot close down these essential services in a hospital, but the induction systems simply couldn't cater to the large number of people at a time." They added that resuming LPG is vital for maintaining hygiene and service speed.
Assessment and Assurance for Streamlined Supply
The ARD is currently finalising a comprehensive assessment of the daily cylinder requirements for each kitchen on campus. This data will be submitted to the gas agency by Monday morning to ensure a streamlined supply chain. Dr Vishnu Jinja, president of the ARD, confirmed, "We communicated our requirements to the gas agency officials, and they assured us of the necessary allotments. We expect things to return to normalcy by Tuesday."
With the LPG problem addressed, the institute's canteens—which serve thousands daily—are preparing to reinstate their full menus, including fast food services that were temporarily halted. PGI sees a daily footfall of 10,000 OPD patients, while there are over 8,000 employees in the hospital who, at any point in time, visit the canteen, underscoring the importance of reliable food services.
