Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday inaugurated a state-of-the-art 3 Tesla MRI machine at Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), Shimla. The equipment has been installed at a cost of around Rs 23 crore.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the new machine replaces the outdated MRI machine that had been in use at the hospital for nearly 20 years. He said the high-end technology is similar to that used at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, and will significantly improve diagnostic capabilities at the premier state-run hospital.
Sukhu said facilities similar to those at AIIMS are being developed in medical colleges at Tanda, Shimla, Hamirpur, Nerchowk, and the upcoming medical facility at Chamiyana.
The Chief Minister said the installation of the new MRI machine would benefit patients from across Himachal Pradesh. Earlier, many patients had to travel outside the state for advanced diagnostic procedures. With the new facility, patients will be able to access these services within the state, saving both time and money.
He also said the present government is investing over Rs 3,000 crore to strengthen healthcare infrastructure in the state. Criticising the previous BJP government, Sukhu alleged that poor financial management and neglect of the health sector had resulted in a lack of modern medical facilities.
During his visit, the Chief Minister also reviewed ongoing development works at IGMC. Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil, along with senior officials and medical experts, was present on the occasion.