A CORRESPONDENT
NAZIRA: The devastating flood that hit the region on July 19 not only destroyed the livelihoods of numerous families but also caused extensive damage to several institutions, particularly those in the health sector.
The Khelua Primary Health Centre (PHC), along with the office of the Sub-Divisional Medical Officer at Khelua in Sivasagar district, suffered significant damage in the flood. As a result, residents of a large area covering the Betbari and Haschara mouzas are facing considerable difficulties in accessing medical treatment and diagnostic services.
Floodwater reportedly rose to nearly four feet inside the health centre and remained there for several days, damaging a large number of essential items and equipment. A substantial quantity of medicines stored at the facility was also reportedly destroyed. Laboratory equipment, inverters, refrigerators and electrical appliances were damaged, while sections of the concrete walls of the health centre also suffered considerable damage.
The flood also affected the healthcare network under Khelua PHC. Of the 19 sub-health centres under its jurisdiction, 16 were reportedly damaged by floodwaters, while only three escaped major damage. Doctors, nurses and other staff of Khelua PHC have been working to clean the premises and salvage and restore whatever equipment remains usable. However, local residents believe that the restoration process cannot be completed without adequate support and attention from senior Health Department officials.
With healthcare services severely affected, residents of the surrounding areas have appealed to elected representatives and senior Health Department authorities to take immediate steps to restore Khelua PHC and its sub-health centres. They urged the authorities to ensure that essential medical services are restored at the earliest and that a safe and healthy healthcare environment is provided for the flood-affected population.
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