'PM visit' puts RML staff on clean alert

Possibility of Modi coming to hospital

 At Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, sanitary workers have only 15 minutes for lunch break now. Workers said this is likely to go on till Diwali.

What is keeping these safai karamcharis on their toes is a buzz that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the hospital any time around Diwali. A prize for the ‘best sanitary worker’ is also a major encouragement, they said.

The Swach Bharat campaign seems to have a major impact on hospitals with authorities involving officials to supervise the cleaning.

“We have been asked by the supervisor to finish lunch in 15 minutes. Cleaning the premises has gone up by 50 per cent since October 2,” said Vinod, a Sulabh worker.

With hospitals planning to adopt the cleanliness programme as a round-the-year exercise, different categories have been created under which safai karamcharis will be rewarded. Besides a certificate, the authorities are also planning on a cash prize.

“We have to work constantly during duty hours now. Supervisors are checking the progress,” Bimal said.

The difference was also visible in the wards. “My father has been admitted here for over 20 days now. Cleanliness in the wards has shown a marked improvement in the past few days. The toilets are also better maintained now,” said Ganpat Kumar, who hails from Bihar.

According to authorities, the hospital has been divided into 15 zones for maintenance. But no extra staff has been recruited for the work.

“There are directives to involve officials in the process and enhance supervision. While we have formed teams to conduct suprise inspections internally, there are chances there would also be surprise visits from the Directorate of Health Services and Ministry, including the PM,” said Dr H K Kar, medical superintendent, RML Hospital.

“This is a long-term exercise. Nodal officers have been appointed to supervise the whole procedure. Different categories have been created to reward workers. We are sending reports to the ministry for the progress made,” Dr Kar added.

At Safdarjung Hospital, sweepers are being sensitised on the need for a hygienic atmosphere.
“Sweepers are being briefed regularly. We will reward the workers after six months based on their performance. Officers appointed will judge their work. Though we haven’t decided on the amount, a cash prize is on the agenda,” said Dr Rajpal, medical superintendent, Safdarjung Hospital.

However, authorities claimed vendors outside the hospital contribute to garbage around the area. “These vendors hold licences given by the NDMC. We have sought an appointment with the civic body to sort out this issue. They dirty the area a lot,” said Dr Rajpal.