The Rajasthan Health department has issued a directive to shut down all unsafe, dilapidated, and urgently repair-needing hospital and health-centre buildings across the state before the onset of the monsoon. Officials have been instructed to inspect every premises and relocate services, staff, patients, and equipment to safer locations wherever necessary.
Health Minister Flags Danger
A department official stated that the health minister highlighted the risks during a video conference in May and ordered authorities not to operate from buildings marked as dilapidated or in need of repair. The aim is to prevent any loss of life due to heavy rain, seepage, electrical faults, or potential structural collapses during the monsoon season.
Statewide Survey Findings
The directive follows a statewide survey conducted in November 2025, which revealed that nearly one-fifth of government hospital buildings inspected were in poor condition. The report identified 2,748 buildings, accounting for 19% of the 14,373 structures checked, as requiring urgent repair and maintenance. The inspection covered Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, primary health centres, community health centres, satellite hospitals, sub-district hospitals, mother-and-child wings, and district hospitals.
Concerns After ICU Fire
The findings have heightened concerns following the ICU fire at Jaipur’s SMS Hospital, where old wiring allegedly triggered a blaze that killed eight critically ill patients. Officials noted that ageing buildings with weakened roofs, damaged wiring, leaking walls, and congested service areas become particularly hazardous during sustained rainfall.
Review of Rented and Ageing Premises
The department is also reviewing service delivery from rented and ageing premises. Among the buildings surveyed, 1,673 health establishments are operating from rented accommodation, making up 12% of inspected facilities. Additionally, 6,270 facilities, or 44%, are housed in old structures.
Infrastructure Upgrades Underway
Officials said infrastructure upgrades are being accelerated, with 3,682 newly constructed buildings now accounting for 26% of inspected facilities. New hospitals are under construction in several areas to strengthen capacity and reduce dependence on unsafe premises before extreme weather strains the public healthcare network across the state.
