Former Congress MLA and senior Tipra Motha leader Tapas De has appealed to the state health secretary to reconsider the proposed location of a new outlet of GBP Hospital near the Regional Cancer Hospital in Udaipur. In a formal letter, he highlighted serious health and environmental concerns related to the site selection.
Tapas De stated that carcinoma treatment at the Regional Cancer Hospital involves the use of therapeutic radiation modalities and Linear Accelerators. These machines generate X-rays and Gamma rays, which are vital for cancer treatment but may be harmful to normal patients, health workers, and doctors if they are exposed without protection.
He warned that situating the GBP Hospital outlet adjacent to the cancer facility would create unnecessary risks. The radiation used in cancer therapy could endanger patients receiving general treatment, as well as doctors and other staff working at the new hospital outlet. He further pointed out that the sensitive environment around the cancer hospital could be compromised, and radiation exposure might damage medical equipment installed in the new facility.
Tapas De emphasized that the physical well-being of general patients should be safeguarded. He argued that placing the new outlet so close to the cancer treatment center contradicts public health priorities, as the harmful impact of radiation could spread beyond the intended treatment areas.
In his letter, the senior leader underlined that the state government, with support from ONGC, is making a significant investment in the hospital project. He urged that the funds should be utilized in a way that benefits people without creating additional risks. According to him, relocating the GBP Hospital outlet to a safer location would ensure that the project truly serves the interests of the public.
Tapas De concluded his appeal by requesting the health secretary to evaluate alternate sites for the new facility. He said the decision must prioritize the safety of patients, doctors, and healthcare staff, while ensuring the investment strengthens Tripura’s health infrastructure without causing harm.