Bid to ‘privatise’ new hosp as poll code timing nears

Despite strong public opposition, the BMC has moved ahead with plans to hand over the newly built Lallubhai Compound Hospital in Mankhurd to private management under its 'civic health collaboration' model, which critics argue mirrors the controversial public-private partnership (PPP) framework.

- Amit Srivastava

The 410-bed, multispecialty hospital, constructed by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), was intended to address the longstanding shortage of healthcare facilities in Mankhurd, particularly for rehabilitated residents.

However, instead of operating the hospital directly, the BMC has opted to involve a private partner for a total period of 30 years - an initial 15-year term with a provision for extension by another 15 years.