Ashok Nagar ESI Hospital to Close from June 15
Belagavi, June 7:
The Employees’ State Insurance (ESI) Hospital in Ashok Nagar, Belagavi, will close from June 15 following orders from the Karnataka Labour Department. To ensure uninterrupted medical care, authorities will shift all services to the ESI dispensary in Yamanapur.
Why Is the Hospital Closing?
The hospital building has raised serious safety concerns for several years. A structural report submitted three years ago declared it unsafe for patients and staff. Consequently, officials recommended closing the facility. After lengthy discussions and delays, they have finally decided to act on this recommendation.
How Will Services Continue?
Starting June 15, patients will receive outpatient services at the Yamanapur dispensary. These services include routine check-ups, medicine distribution, laboratory tests, and referral letter issuance. The shift will minimize inconvenience to patients while the new hospital is being planned and constructed.
What Are the Plans for the Old Hospital Site?
Officials plan to demolish the old building and build a new, modern ESI hospital at the Ashok Nagar site. Although tendering for construction began about six months ago, the process was halted and tenders were cancelled. The authorities expect to issue fresh tenders soon. However, no clear timeline exists yet for when construction will begin or finish.
How Will Patients Access Private Healthcare?
To further support patients during this transition, from June 16, referral letters for private hospital treatment will be available at five ESI dispensaries across the city:
- Channamma Circle
- Udyambag
- Peeranwadi
- Shahapur
- Yamanapur
This arrangement will help reduce the impact of the hospital closure on patients who need specialized or urgent care.
Community and Worker Reactions
The hospital relocation has been debated for nearly four years. While many workers understand the need for a safer, upgraded facility, they remain concerned about service disruptions during the transition. Industrial workers have expressed their hope that authorities will expedite the new hospital’s construction to avoid long-term gaps in healthcare availability.
The Road Ahead
Meanwhile, health officials have assured the public that they will monitor the service shift carefully. They plan to address any issues promptly and keep the community informed. This temporary relocation highlights the government’s commitment to both patient safety and continuous healthcare service.
Read also : Belagavi Flyover Work to Begin in October: Minister Jarkiholi Confirms
