Ludhiana: The only govt-run rehabilitation centre in the district is reportedly falling into structural decay, sparking concerns that the facility’s deteriorating condition is undermining local efforts to combat drug addiction.Despite being a critical link in the “War Against Drugs” campaign, the 50-bed facility has not seen a major renovation since it began operations in the Red Cross building in August 2016. Local sources and health officials describe a facility plagued by neglect. The fiber shed at the entrance is cracked and failing, while the interior walls show exposed masonry and significant structural cracking.
Additional reports from the site indicate safety hazards, poor sanitation, and aesthetic neglect. Ward windows are missing glass panes, and existing security grills are spaced too widely, posing a flight or safety risk. Tiles are broken or dislocated across the floor, and the washrooms are in such poor condition that officials say a complete overhaul is required. Paint is peeling from the majority of the building’s exterior and interior surfaces.The civil surgeon, Dr Ramandeep Kaur, confirmed that she has formally requested renovation funds from both the state health department and the district’s civil administration. The request was highlighted during a recent skill development function attended by the deputy commissioner.High demand, limited resourcesThe centre remains a high-traffic hub, often operating at its full 50-patient capacity. Due to its central location in Jagraon, it frequently accepts patients from neighboring districts, including Barnala and Moga. While infrastructure has faltered, staffing and nutrition have seen minor shifts. Dr Ramandeep Kaur noted that while the centre has lacked a dedicated manager since Dec 2023, a full-time psychiatrist now manages operations.An additional psychiatrist from Raikot is also deployed two days a week to handle the high volume of admissions. “It is our priority to get the renovation done,” the civil surgeon said, noting that while the centre receives a “decent” number of admissions, the environment must be conducive to recovery.Social activist Kuldeep Singh Khaira criticised the govt’s reactive approach to maintenance. “Proper infrastructure is a basic requirement for living,” Khaira said. “Ironically, the govt doesn’t perform maintenance until buildings are badly damaged. It is the right of the inmates to have proper facilities.” The ‘Audit’ TrapA health department official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, revealed a bureaucratic hurdle preventing immediate fixes. While funds are occasionally available for “infrastructure extension,” these grants cannot be legally diverted to “renovation” without risking significant complications during govt audits. The rehabilitation centres has been operating out of the Red Cross building since Aug 2016 without a single major renovation. Department officials claim they have access to funds for expanding the building, but using those same funds to repair existing structures would trigger audit failures.
