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MLA residential quarters made into makeshift hospital in Arunachal

A sudden and alarming spike in Covid-19 positive cases have started showing in Itanagar Capital Region in Arunachal Pradesh hospital. To cope with the increasing challenge in the ICR, the government of Arunachal Pradesh has decided to convert MLA cottage into COVID-19 facility.

The newly constructed multi-crore MLA quarters in Chimpu village in Papum Pare district (block – Itanagar) with the capacity to accommodate around 60 MLAs is converted into a makeshift COVID hospital for emergency critical patients.

The MLA quarters had not yet been inaugurated when the decision was taken by the government.

Health Minister Alo Libang along with Health Secretary P Parthiban, Director Tomo Riba Institute of Medical Science, Dr M. Jini and other officials went to supervise the newly constructed MLA quarters to see the feasibility for converting it into COVID hospital, as the state is in dire need of more COVID hospitals.

“This makeshift COVID Hospital will have the facilities for more than 40 beds with the types of equipment like ICU, Oxygen, diagnosis, and others” informed Alo Libang, Minister of Health, Arunachal Pradesh.

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However, locals have started raising their voices against the step fearing spread of the disease.

The residents of Chimpu blockaded the way to the MLA cottage as a mark of protest. They have demanded the selection of some other site for the construction of a makeshift hospital.

A local stated, “This area is a densely populated one. Treating Covid-19 patients here will create panic among the residents and the virus can spread to nearby localities risking lives of many.”

Chief Minister Pema Khandu tweeted, “Approval is accorded for setting up of dedicated #Covid19 Hospital at MLA apartment today. 

While catering to need for better infrastructural facility, this will also ensure the safety of our frontline health workers. 

I thank all Hon’ble MLAs for the support in this noble cause.“