New Delhi/Bilaspur:
In a major relief for patients and their attendants visiting AIIMS Bilaspur, access to the premier healthcare institute is set to become much easier. A direct connectivity plan from the Shimla–Mataur National Highway (four-lane) to the AIIMS campus will be implemented soon to ensure smooth and safe movement of ambulances and patients.
The blueprint for this key infrastructure project was finalised during a high-level meeting chaired by Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda in New Delhi. The meeting was attended by senior officials of AIIMS, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Bilaspur Deputy Commissioner Rahul Kumar and SDM Sadar Dr Rajdeep Singh.
Direct Entry via Service Lane
The meeting’s most significant decision focused on connectivity. It was decided that a dedicated service lane would be developed from the Shimla–Mataur four-lane highway to provide direct and hassle-free access to AIIMS Bilaspur and the nearby Vishram Sadan. This will help patients, attendants and ambulance services reach the hospital without traffic congestion or inconvenience.
Parking Infrastructure to Be Strengthened
Keeping in view the increasing footfall at AIIMS Bilaspur in the coming years, the meeting also discussed the development of adequate and well-organised parking facilities near the campus. The aim is to ensure smooth vehicle management and reduce inconvenience to patients and visitors.
Land Identified for Kendriya Vidyalaya
Apart from road connectivity, the establishment of a Kendriya Vidyalaya in the AIIMS area was also discussed. DC Rahul Kumar informed the Union Minister that land for the school has already been identified and the proposal is currently under the Forest Conservation Act (FCA) clearance process. Further action will be initiated once approvals are received.
Inter-Departmental Coordination Emphasised
Union Health Minister JP Nadda directed NHAI, the AIIMS administration and the Bilaspur district administration to work in close coordination. He stressed the need to strengthen infrastructure in line with the present and future requirements of AIIMS, so that the institution can emerge as a model centre for healthcare services in the region.
