A section of doctors of the Government Rajaji Hospital (GRH) and activists have raised concerns over the design being considered for a Japan International Cooperation Agency-funded infrastructure project, which involves the demolition of some heritage structures.
Alleging that an attempt was being made to deviate from the original design proposed for the project, its opponents urged the retention of the original plan.
Estimated to cost ₹330 crore, the project involves the construction of a six-storey building that would house a 600-seater auditorium and an operation theatre complex with 26 theatres. As per the original design, the existing three-storey building, with the auditorium and the operation theatre complex, was to be demolished, and the new building constructed at the same spot.
However, according to some heads of department at the hospital, a revised design is now being considered, involving the construction of the complex at an alternative spot on the GRH premises by demolishing a portion of the heritage building, which was constructed before Independence, when the hospital was known as The Erskine Hospital.
A senior doctor, requesting anonymity, said, “We have raised our objections despite the pressure to agree to the revised design.”
Henri Tiphagne, executive director of People’s Watch, said that his organisation would not hesitate to approach the court if the Public Health and Family Welfare Department decides to press ahead with the revised plan.
When contacted, J. Radhakrishnan, Principal Secretary, Health and Family Welfare Department, said no decision had been taken to demolish heritage buildings.
