Nitin Gadkari Unveils INR 338 Cr Makeover Plan for Mayo Hospital, Nagpur

As part of the ceremony, a state-of-the-art 600-bed modern medicine complex was officially inaugurated alongside various other infrastructural enhancements.

In a significant development aimed at modernizing healthcare infrastructure, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari inaugurated an INR 338 Cr makeover plan for the historic Indira Gandhi Government Medical College and Hospital (IGGMCH), commonly known as Mayo Hospital, in Nagpur. 

The ceremony marked the commencement of an ambitious project that includes the construction of a state-of-the-art 600-bed modern medicine complex alongside various other infrastructural enhancements. Additionally, various other infrastructure enhancements are planned, including new buildings for the outpatient department (OPD), Resident Medical Officer (RMO), undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) hostels, nursing college, nursing hostels, and allied services. 

Established in 1872 as a district civil hospital, Mayo Hospital occupies a sprawling 40-acre site adjacent to the railway station in Nagpur. Despite its illustrious history, the institution is undergoing its first major renovation to revitalize its facilities to meet contemporary healthcare standards. The existing infrastructure, predominantly dating back to the British colonial era, has suffered from neglect and deterioration over time.

Enhanced Facilities & Timelines

Originally conceived as a 500-bed facility, the modern medicine complex is now slated to accommodate 600 beds at an estimated cost of INR 145 Cr. 

Dean Dr Ravi Chouhan, reflecting on the significance of the renovation, emphasized that the project aims to consolidate all essential medical services under one roof. With an anticipated completion timeline of three years, the revamp endeavors to address longstanding deficiencies in infrastructure and personnel.

Dr Chouhan affirmed that upon the project's completion, the hospital will be equipped to provide ample accommodation for patients' relatives, thereby enhancing the overall patient experience. Furthermore, measures will be implemented to alleviate existing staffing shortages and streamline operational efficiency.

Government Support & Collaborative Efforts

Union Minister Gadkari underscored the importance of ensuring adequate manpower to operate the new equipment and urged the hospital administration to learn from successful models such as Pune's Ruby Hall Clinic. He suggested exploring the possibility of integrating the hospital with the metro rail system to alleviate parking issues and enhance accessibility for patients and visitors.

Moreover, Gadkari encouraged proactive engagement with relevant stakeholders, urging the Public Works Department (PWD) to explore the feasibility of integrating metro rail access within the hospital premises. 

He said, "Around 30% of parking issues have been solved at Ruby Hall as a metro station lands inside their premises. I would suggest PWD to look at a similar possibility for IGGMCH which already has a station nearby.”

Expanding Access to Healthcare Services

In addition to the renovation efforts at Mayo Hospital, other regional healthcare initiatives are underway. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced plans to establish a standalone 165-bed cancer hospital in Bandra to expand patients' access to affordable cancer care services. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to decentralize healthcare delivery and alleviate the burden on existing medical facilities.

Furthermore, Mayo Hospital has committed to enhancing support for economically disadvantaged patients by appointing additional staff to assist in navigating government healthcare schemes. Recognizing the importance of equitable access to healthcare, these measures seek to address longstanding coordination challenges and ensure that marginalized communities receive the necessary support and care.