Muktsar, April 21 — A 50-bed Critical Care Unit (CCU) under the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PMABHIM) will now be constructed at Gidderbaha, sparking protests in nearby Muktsar town, where the facility was initially expected.
Punjab Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh, during a visit to Muktsar, confirmed the shift while addressing residents at the district administrative complex. “Our officials tried, but no land was available at Muktsar Civil Hospital,” he said. “I will sanction a critical care unit for Muktsar as well—just help us identify suitable land.”
The project, which must be finalized before March 31, faced logistical constraints due to land unavailability in Muktsar. However, the Health Minister’s assurance came amid rising public anger in the town.
Local residents, disappointed by the relocation, recently held a protest march and submitted letters to the Prime Minister, Chief Minister, and other authorities, urging them to reverse the decision. Some are also preparing to file a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the High Court.
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jagdeep Chawla said the district had proposed alternate land parcels to the state Health Department. “The project requires nearly one acre of land. We had written to the Director of Health and Family Welfare, but that much land is available only at Gidderbaha Civil Hospital,” he said.
Dr. Chawla added, “Higher authorities made the decision accordingly. I am not aware of the current status, but we had tried our best.”
Despite public opposition, the state is moving ahead with the Gidderbaha site unless a feasible location in Muktsar emerges swiftly.
