The condition of the Orong Primary Health Centre in Samdrup Jongkhar is becoming a growing concern for the community it serves. With cracks in the walls and leaks from the roof, the building is no longer in good shape. Residents are now requesting for repair.
In Orong Gewog, around 500 residents rely on this Primary Health Centre.
It also caters to over 1,000 students from nearby schools.
But the centre’s building is now showing clear signs of deterioration.
Pema Tenzin, a resident said, “This health centre is now 34 years old and has never been repaired. We submitted requests long ago, but due to the lack of road connectivity, it was left unattended. Now that a road connection is available, it would be better if the centre could finally be repaired.”
Another resident, Jigme Wangmo said, “The hospital walls have developed cracks, and it would be appreciated if they could be repaired.”
Deki who is a resident said, “Orong Primary Health Centre was constructed many years ago. Over time, many staff have changed, but the structure has remained the same. Now, the condition of the facility is deteriorating. The roof is leaking, and the floors are cracked. We need to have a proper and safe health centre.”
According to the Orong Gewog Administration, the health centre can no longer be repaired and requires a new building which requires an about Nu 10 M.
However, at present, there is no budget allocated for the health sector in Samdrup Jongkhar. Officials said the health sector was under the National Medical Services during the preparation of the Five-Year-Plan. But now, it is under the district administration following health sector transformation.
The issue was discussed during the mid term review of 13 Five-Year-Plan for Samdrup Jongkhar district.
Pema Tshewang, Deputy Chief Public Health Officer, Samdrup Jongkhar said, “In the 13th Five-Year Plan, only the construction of Samdrup Jongkhar Hospital and a medical store were included. And if we follow the National Medical Services, we will have only these two activities. Meanwhile, most of the hospitals in the district are old and in need of repair.
Younten Phuntsho, Minister for Agriculture and Livestock said, “Similar issues have been reported from other districts as well, and we have noted them. We acknowledge the concern and will be discussing it with the relevant agencies.”
For now, residents continue to rely on the ageing facility, hoping improvements will come soon.
Kinley Wangchuk
