19 August,2011 07:08 AM IST | | Priyanka Vora
Tata Hospital authorities have sought BMC's permission to build a shelter under the flyover, where patients and their relatives can stay conveniently close to the facility
The regular sight of cancer patients and their relatives squatting or sleeping on the pavements outside the Tata Memorial Hospital (TMH) during treatment may soon be a thing of the past.
u00a0
In a bid to make matters more comfortable for the anxious patients and those that accompany them, the hospital authorities have requested the civic body for permission to build a shelter for them underneath the Lalbaug flyover.
Around the year, one can see cancer patients lying on the pavements outside the hospital, as they await surgery, or undergo pre- and post-operative chemotherapy.
u00a0
Many of them are outstation patients, who resort to camping outside the premises in the absence of any other accommodation.
"The hospital, along with its associate NGOs, shoulders the responsibility of providing accommodation to patients and their relatives.
But the space presently available is not adequate to shelter the increased patient load. Thus we decided to approach the BMC, for permission to construct a home under the flyover.
Since the chosen spot is within easy reach of the hospital, relatives will find it convenient and comfortable to live there," said S H Jafry, spokesperson, TMH.
He added, "Cancer patients have very low immunity, and they should live in clean and hygienic quarters during treatment.
We aim to provide accommodation to these patients at nominal charges." The hospital authorities have identified a spot under the flyover where the home can be built.
u00a0
"The shelter will be equipped with basic amenities. We will be in charge of maintaining and managing it, with the help of volunteers from NGOs.
We will also station security guards outside the premises, to ensure that the lodgers are safe," added Jafry.
BMC official speaks
"We have received a proposal from authorities at TMS, asking us for permission to develop a home for cancer patients. The chosen spot is on Dr BR Ambedkar road, under the Lalbaug flyover.
u00a0
It is a commendable initiative, and will make things easier for patients and their relatives.
Once the MMRDA hands over the flyover to us, we will forward the proposal to higher ups," said Harshad Kale, assistant municipal commissioner, F (South) ward.
He added, "We will identify other spots for more such shelters, and also seek permission from the traffic department."
