Cuttack: Patients encountered a harrowing experience in SCB Medical College & Hospital in Odisha’s Cuttack following power outage for hours, according to information received on Sunday.
Though power was later supplied with diesel generator, ceiling fans did not function in many wards, causing inconvenience to the patients and their attendants on Saturday, sources said.
This apart, supply of water to various wards was affected due to absence of power in the pump house.
The problem initially surfaced in Anatomy department, morgue, Dermatology department, Medicine department, Spinal Injury Centre and laundry plant of the hospital.
Several patients had to leave their beds and go out to get a fresh air while others were seen using handmade fans for some respite from heat.
While the exact reason for the power outage could not be ascertained immediately, disruption was reportedly caused by a cease work agitation by contractual electric workers over demands of pending salary, sources said.
The situation turned normal after long hours when the protesters withdrew their stir following assurance by the authorities about their demands, they said.
Irate patients and their attendants lashed out at the hospital authorities alleging that doctors and senior officials are enjoying inside AC rooms, leaving others in a miserable condition.
Claiming that power disruption has become a regular feature at the hospital, they blamed the authorities for the pathetic situation.