Hundreds of air conditioners purchased for Punjab’s government teaching hospitals remain uninstalled despite being bought nearly three years ago. Official documents revealed the delay on Tuesday.
According to the records, the Specialized Healthcare and Medical Education Department purchased around 6,600 air conditioners. The procurement reportedly cost approximately Rs 2.5 billion.
However, installation has not been completed despite the passage of three summer seasons. As a result, several hospitals have been unable to benefit from the equipment.
Hundreds Of Units Still Await Installation
Official documents show that more than 200 air conditioners remain in government storage facilities. Meanwhile, over 500 units delivered to government hospitals have yet to be installed.
The delay has affected healthcare facilities during consecutive summer seasons. High temperatures have continued placing additional pressure on both patients and hospital staff.
Officials said the shortage of required installation materials has slowed the process across several hospitals.
Lack Of Funds Blamed For Delay
According to the documents, authorities lack funds to purchase additional aluminium pipes needed for installation. Consequently, officials have been unable to complete the project despite having the air conditioners available.
The absence of essential accessories has prevented the equipment from becoming operational. As a result, hospitals continue waiting for the cooling systems to be installed.
The delay has also raised concerns about planning within the Specialized Healthcare and Medical Education Department. Questions have emerged over procuring equipment before ensuring the availability of all necessary installation components.
