Ex-Pramukh Abdul Siddique Calls for Urgent Staffing at Mayabunder Hospital

Port Blair, India Aug 28, 2026 ALN: Ex-Pramukh Mr. Abdul Siddique has expressed serious concern regarding the critical shortage of both technical and non-technical staff at Dr. R.P. District Hospital in Mayabunder. He has urged the A&N Administration to take immediate action to fill these vacant positions to ensure uninterrupted healthcare services for the residents of North and Middle .

Healthcare accessibility is a pressing issue in many remote regions, and the situation at Dr. R.P. District Hospital exemplifies the challenges faced by residents in the North and Middle . The hospital serves a significant population, providing essential medical services that are vital for the health and well-being of the community. However, the current staffing shortages are undermining the hospital's ability to deliver these services effectively.

In a letter addressed to the Chief Secretary of the A&N Administration, Mr. Siddique emphasized that the District Hospital serves a large population in the North and Middle region. He pointed out that the lack of essential manpower is hindering the provision of adequate medical services locally, forcing patients to travel to Port Blair for necessary investigations and treatments that should ideally be available at the district hospital. This situation not only places an additional financial burden on patients but also poses risks to their health, as timely medical interventions can be critical.

One of the primary concerns raised by Siddique is the shortage of Lab Technicians. He noted that following the transfer of the existing Lab Technician from Dr. R.P. Hospital to Port Blair, no replacement has been appointed. This absence of adequate laboratory staff is severely affecting the hospital's laboratory operations, and he highlighted that essential laboratory reagents are also unavailable, resulting in several tests not being conducted. Lab Technicians play a crucial role in diagnosing illnesses and monitoring health conditions, and their absence can lead to delays in treatment and a lack of proper medical oversight for patients.

Additionally, the letter mentions the issue of the Dental Technician. Although a Dental Technician is reportedly assigned to Mayabunder, Siddique claims that this individual has been performing duties at CHC Rangat for several years. He has requested that a Dental Technician be made available at Dr. R.P. District Hospital without further delay to ensure that patients can receive dental services locally. Dental health is an essential aspect of overall health, and the lack of local dental care can lead to untreated dental issues, which can escalate into more serious health concerns.

Another significant concern is the shortage of Pharmacists. Siddique pointed out that the senior Pharmacist at the hospital recently passed away after a serious illness. Currently, a single lady Pharmacist is managing the workload for the entire hospital, which he argues is unreasonable. Pharmacists are essential in ensuring that patients receive the correct medications and understand their usage, and the overwhelming responsibility on one individual can lead to errors and inefficiencies in patient care. He has urged the Administration to appoint an additional Pharmacist as soon as possible.

Mr. Siddique also highlighted the need for an X-Ray Technician and other essential technical and non-technical staff, stating that these shortages directly impact patient care and create additional hardships, especially for those traveling from remote areas of the district. The availability of diagnostic services, such as X-rays, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Without sufficient staffing, patients may experience delays in diagnosis, leading to complications in their treatment.

He appealed to the Chief Secretary to issue necessary directives to the relevant authorities for the immediate posting of Lab Technicians, Dental Technicians, Pharmacists, X-Ray Technicians, and other essential staff at Dr. R.P. District Hospital in Mayabunder. The plea for immediate action reflects the urgency of the situation, as the health and safety of the community depend on the availability of skilled healthcare professionals.

“The District Hospital at Mayabunder must have adequate manpower and facilities to serve the people of North and Middle . Patients should not be compelled to travel to Port Blair for basic investigations and treatments due to staff shortages,” Mr. Siddique stated. He urged the Administration to consider this matter with urgency and take necessary action for the benefit of the people of Mayabunder and the entire North and Middle District.

The call for staffing increases at Dr. R.P. District Hospital also highlights broader issues within the healthcare system in remote areas. Staffing shortages in healthcare facilities are not uncommon, particularly in regions that are geographically isolated or less populated. These shortages can stem from a variety of factors, including budget constraints, recruitment challenges, and the difficulty of attracting professionals to work in remote settings. As a result, residents in such areas often face significant barriers to accessing timely and effective healthcare.

Addressing these staffing shortages is not just a matter of filling positions; it involves a comprehensive approach to improving healthcare delivery in the region. This includes evaluating the current healthcare infrastructure, investing in training and development for healthcare professionals, and ensuring that facilities are adequately funded and equipped to meet the needs of the population.

The implications of Siddique's concerns are significant. If the staffing issues at Dr. R.P. District Hospital are not addressed promptly, the quality of healthcare in the North and Middle could continue to deteriorate. This could lead to increased health disparities, with vulnerable populations suffering the most. The government’s response to this situation will be closely watched by the community, as it reflects their commitment to ensuring that all residents have access to essential healthcare services.