Daijiworld Media Network - Ranchi

Ranchi, Jun 14: Even as covid-19 cases see a fresh rise in Jharkhand, a newly built virology centre at Sadar Hospital in Ranchi remains non-functional nearly two years after its completion.

Constructed at a cost of Rs 2.5 cr on the first floor of a newly built multi-storey block within the hospital premises, the centre is equipped to detect a range of viral infections including Covid-19, Hepatitis B and C, and Human Papillomavirus (HPV). However, the facility remains locked, awaiting formal handover and staffing.

Officials now claim the RT-PCR testing lab will become operational within a week. Recruitment for one support staff is complete, and three more have been finalized, they said.

“The testing machines are in place but haven’t been officially handed over, which is causing the delay,” said Dr Bimlesh Singh, Deputy Medical Superintendent. “We hope to begin operations in two to three days, but some administrative hurdles remain.”

Ranchi civil surgeon Dr Prabhat Kumar added, “Until now, RT-PCR tests were limited to Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS). Once this facility is functional, it will significantly ease the burden on RIMS.”