A major rodent infestation has gripped the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Government Hospital (GH) in Trichy, raising serious concerns about patient safety and hygiene standards. The problem is widespread, affecting even critical general wards and posing a direct threat to vulnerable patients, including newborns and the seriously ill.
Rats Invade Critical Wards, Patients Live in Fear
An investigation revealed that rodents have virtually taken over several sections of the hospital. Alarmingly, rat holes were discovered inside general wards, including the area behind the Integrated Treatment Centre for Hemophilia and Hemoglobinopathies. The menace is not confined to a single block but is prevalent across the paediatric ward, maternity ward, and other areas of the old building.
Patients and their attendants, especially those on the ground floors, described a terrifying situation. They reported seeing rats scurrying on the floor and even climbing onto beds at night. "My mother, who is seriously ill, could not even rest properly because of this," shared Mahalingam, an attendant. The fear is palpable in the maternity ward, where Saran M, another attendant, expressed his anxiety: "During the night, my wife could hear rats running across the floor and even climbing onto the beds. With newborns around, what if it bites them?"
Failed Grievance Redressal and Hygiene Breakdown
Beyond the rodent crisis, the hospital is battling severe hygiene issues. Attendants flagged the irregular water supply, which is released only two or three times a day, leaving most restrooms unclean. The grievance redressal system appears broken. "If we call the numbers mentioned to register grievances, nobody picks up the phone or the number is not reachable," added Saran.
During a visit on Friday morning, the situation was visibly dire. All four mobile toilets installed near the maternity ward were found to be unusable, as they had not been flushed due to a lack of water supply. This compounds the unhygienic environment, increasing the risk of infections for patients who are already in a weakened state.
Official Response and Call for Permanent Solution
Hospital staff have repeatedly raised the rodent issue with higher officials, but only temporary measures have been implemented. "The problem keeps coming back because there is no permanent solution," a hospital worker stated. A doctor from the hospital, speaking on condition of anonymity, highlighted the medical danger: "Rat bites can become serious. Patients come here for treatment; they should not leave more sick than when they arrived."
When confronted with photographic evidence, a senior hospital official assured that the matter would be investigated. The official stated that rodent control measures are being carried out but would be intensified. However, the official also shifted some responsibility, saying, "Patients and attendants also need to behave responsibly and avoid throwing food waste indiscriminately." This response has done little to assuage the fears of patients and their families who are demanding immediate and effective action to ensure a safe and hygienic healing environment.
