Amid reports of non-functional ventilators at the the LNJP Hospital, Delhi Health Minister Dr Pankaj Kumar Singh on Friday conducted a surprise inspection at the hospital to assess medical facilities and the condition of the equipment.
Following the surprise check, Dr Singh informed that all the 80 ventilator systems (breathing support machines) at the hospital are in working condition, and 18 such additional machines have been kept reserved for emergency use.
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“The information being circulated about non-functional ventilators is misleading and factually incorrect. Creating unnecessary panic among citizens is not justified,” he stated.
The minister also visited the emergency room and other wards, and assured doctors, patients, and attendants of the government’s full support and commitment to addressing their concerns.
Speaking on the issue of non-functional ventilators, the minister said it is impossible for a hospital of LNJP’s stature and footfall to have a significant number of ventilators out of order.
He presented official reports from past months to corroborate the operational status of the equipment.
Dr Singh said the Delhi Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, is committed to ensuring the highest standards of healthcare and robust medical infrastructure for all its citizens.
The minister further informed that 222 ventilators are available under central procurement, and in case of any shortage, the hospital can request additional units from this reserved quota.
Dr Singh further informed that the procurement process for MRI machines has been under progress, and by January 2026, all Delhi government hospitals will be equipped with MRI and CT scan facilities.
He emphasized that these steps are part of the government’s broader vision to make Delhi’s public healthcare system the best in the country.
Talking about the alleged failures of the previous government, Singh said, “it will take some time to bring everything in order after 11 years of mismanagement. Earlier, patients had to face shortages of medicines — even expired stock was found in several hospitals.”
He said the present government has ensured that no such malpractice continues and that Delhi hospitals are adequately supplied with essential medicines.
On the ongoing issue of cough syrup safety, Dr Singh said, “The Centre has taken cognizance of the matter. Delhi is following all central advisories and will continue to act strictly as per the Government of India’s instructions.”
He said that the gaps that existed in the past are being bridged, and our public hospitals are regaining the people’s trust through improved services and facilities.