JOINT team of Health Department, Revenue Department and Jabalpur Municipal Corporation (JMC) conducted a surprise inspection of Smart City Hospital on Sunday and sealed the facility after finding several alleged irregularities in its operations. It may be noted that Narsinghpur Police had recently arrested eight persons, including Dr Amit Khare, owner of Smart City Hospital, in connection with the pre-planned road accident on July 19, in which five youths were killed after being hit by a speeding Hyva vehicle in Suatla area. Following the accident, questions were raised over the functioning of the hospital. Acting on repeated complaints, the district administration formed a joint team to inspect the hospital. The inspection was carried out under the leadership of Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) Dr Naveen Kothari. During the inspection, officials found several shortcomings. The team found that the hospital was operating without qualified doctors and nursing staff on duty. No resident or visiting doctor was present at the time of inspection, and even after attempts were made to contact doctors, none arrived at the hospital. The inspection team also found an unauthorised pathology laboratory and pharmacy operating on the premises.

 

Officials further reported that the hospital did not have essential approvals, including a fire safety No Objection Certificate (NOC) and valid building-related permissions. In view of the seriousness of the situation, the administration immediately focused on the safety of the patients admitted there. CMHO contacted the superintendent of the Government Medical College Hospital, following which 108 ambulance services were arranged. All eight patients admitted at Smart City Hospital were shifted to the Medical College Hospital for further treatment. After completing the inspection, the authorities prepared a detailed report and sealed the hospital. The administration has also started the process of cancelling the hospital’s licence and issued a notice to the management, giving them one month to submit all required legal documents and approvals. Officials said further action will be taken based on the findings of the inquiry and as per the provisions of law. The administration has reiterated that strict action will be taken against institutions found violating medical and safety regulations.