Frustration is mounting in Pune’s Lohgaon area as the long-awaited Sub-District Hospital remains unopened despite the building being completed years ago. In a decisive move, MLA Bapusaheb Pathare has publicly criticized the administration for repeated delays and issued urgent directives to finish the remaining work, promising that he “will not rest until the hospital is fully functional”.
The Lohgaon Sub-District Hospital, a state-of-the-art 100-bed facility built at a cost of ₹38.8 crore, was envisioned five years ago to address the growing healthcare needs of Lohgaon and surrounding regions. Despite the completion of major construction and the promise of advanced medical services including general wards, ICU, laboratories, and 13 specialty departments the hospital has yet to open its doors to the public.
Residents, who currently travel to Aundh District Hospital or Sassoon General Hospital for treatment, have voiced their disappointment and anger over the continued delay. “It is unfortunate that although the building stands ready, healthcare services have not yet begun. This is no longer acceptable,” MLA Pathare stated during a high-level meeting with officials this week.
District civil surgeon Dr. Nagnath Yempalay confirmed that while the core infrastructure is nearly complete, final touches especially electrical works are still ongoing. The hospital’s inauguration has been repeatedly postponed, with the latest delay attributed to regulatory formalities and extended timelines by the Public Works Department.
MLA Pathare made it clear that excuses will no longer be tolerated. He firmly directed all concerned departments to take immediate action and ensure the hospital is operational without further delay. “I have raised this issue multiple times during budget sessions. The health of local citizens is my top priority,” he declared.
Pathare personally inspected the hospital site with officials, reiterating his commitment to see the project through. He emphasized that the hospital will not only provide vital healthcare to Lohgaon but also help ease the burden on Sassoon Hospital and strengthen the city’s public health system.
The delay has sparked widespread criticism from residents and civic activists, who demand transparency and accountability. With urgent directives now in place, local citizens hope the hospital will finally open and bring much-needed relief to the area.