Cancer patients suffer as ₹19cr govt hospital budget goes unused

Lucknow: Patients awaiting cancer treatment facilities at Kalyan Singh Super Speciality Cancer Institute have been hit, after a Rs 19 crore budget meant for purchasing essential equipment lapsed, delaying upgrades at the hospital.The state govt had released around Rs 19 crore on Oct 9 last year for procurement of medical equipment and furniture. However, officials failed to complete the purchase process within six months. As the financial year ended on Mar 31, the unspent amount had to be returned to the govt.The institute’s administration has now written to the govt again, seeking fresh financial approval so that procurement of 26 types of equipment for patient care can begin this year.Officials on condition of anonymity said the delay was largely due to the slow progress in the tender process. Allegations of irregularities have also surfaced, including repeated changes in tender conditions.It is alleged that norms of the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal were bypassed and a custom bidding process was adopted, prompting complaints to the authorities.Taking note of the complaints, the govt had sought a reply from the institute within two days. However, even after around 10 days, no response has been submitted so far, raising further concerns over delays in strengthening cancer care facilities.