Patna: A massive traffic jam at the entrance of AIIMS-Patna in Phulwarisharif frequently causes delays for patients and visitors trying to access medical services at the premium hospital. On Tuesday, the bottleneck — caused by inadequate drainage infrastructure, poor road conditions and unregulated traffic — left ambulances stuck for hours.
The traffic jam, stretching for about 4km from Phulwarisharif Golambar to AIIMS-Patna, has become a routine ordeal, particularly during peak hours. This situation makes it increasingly difficult for patients, especially those in critical conditions, to reach the hospital on time. “Several ambulances were seen stuck in the gridlock, further aggravating concerns about the hospital’s ability to respond to emergency cases swiftly,” said a local resident, Gyan Shankar.
Adding to the traffic woes, the surrounding area near AIIMS is plagued by overflowing drains that emit foul-smelling water across the streets. The stagnant water, combined with accumulated dirt and filth, poses serious health hazards to patients and visitors. The unsanitary conditions are exacerbated by illegal roadside vendors who have occupied the hospital gates, blocking pedestrian pathways and creating chaos near the entrance.
“The situation is unbearable. It is becoming impossible for people accompanying patients to reach the hospital on time, especially in emergencies. The smell from the overflowing drains makes it difficult to even breathe properly,” said Pranay Kumar, an attendant of a patient.
Social activist Arvind Kumar from Phulwarisharif and health expert Dr Umesh Kumar have expressed concern over the lack of proper sanitation around the hospital. They warned that this could lead to the spread of diseases, particularly in a region already struggling with poor hygiene standards. “In addition to roadwork and drain cleaning, there is an urgent need for stricter regulations on street vendors to prevent further deterioration of the area’s health standards,” they said, adding that, as of now, there is no clear plan from local authorities to address these issues.
Dr Sanjeev, a senior medical officer at AIIMS, said, “Several reminders were sent to the district administration to prioritize this issue, but it has been in vain so far. The AIIMS authority had also approached the state urban department to remove illegal encroachments, mud and slush accumulated at the main entrance gate and to regulate the movement of heavy vehicles passing through the hospital. Unfortunately, no action has been taken yet.” Dr Sanjeev added that the hospital handles a footfall of about 50,000 patients per day.
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