PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, Oct 9: The 100-bed inflatable Covid-19 field hospital awaiting inauguration on the premises of MGM Medical College and Hospital is embroiled in controversy after a PVC tarpaulin structure collapsed last evening due to some technical glitches.
Superintendent of MGM Hospital Arun Kumar and other senior doctors visited the site of the field hospital to know the reason for the mishap.
The 100-bed hospital meant only for Covid-19 patients was planned keeping in view the possible third wave.
A Delhi-based firm – PT Medical Solutions – has completed erecting the inflatable structures made of fire retardant PVC tarpaulin on the premises of the Sakchi-based government heal hub.
Officials of the firm said that some technical glitches led to the blast which caused damage to the inflated structures.
” We have started a probe as to what went wrong, ” said an official.
In all, there are four units. Each of the units comprises 25 semi-fowler beds.
The beds are ergonomically designed with backrest functions and collapsible side rails to ensure patient safety.
Such an inflatable field hospital has a life of 25 years and that it can be shifted anywhere as and when required.
The state health department had entrusted the job to American India Foundation ( AIF ) which roped in the Delhi-based firm for the hospital project.
Spread in around 12,000 sq ft area, the inflatable field hospital has 16 ICU beds with a ventilator facility, 30 oxygen-ready beds and 54 general ward beds which can be converted into paediatric and ICU beds instantly, in case of a possible third wave.
It also has a high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC ) oxygen delivery system required for patients on ventilators and Manifold Gas Pipeline System ( MGPS ) which will ensure oxygen supply in every bed.
Officials of the health department said with the mishap the inauguration of the 100-bed hospital will be further delayed.