At least 35 health facilities have been hit hard, all surgeries put on hold

Biratnagar, December 9:

The oxygen crisis has deepened in the eastern region, affecting treatment for thousands of patients. At least 35 hospitals and private nursing homes have been hit hard by the acute shortage.

“We have managed to get hold of five oxygen cylinders from the Biratnagar branch of Bhaju Ratna P Ltd,” said Dr Gyanendra Karki, director of Birat Nursing Home. The Koshi Zonal Hospital, too, is battling the shortage.

Trouble broke out after employees of Binayak Oxygen Industry (BOI) — the sole supplier of the lifeline to the region — struck work in Sunday, demanding hike in their salaries.

The other supplier, Bhajuratna (P) Ltd, a Birgunj-based company, had halted operations since August 18 following the breach in the Koshi embankments.

Thousands of patients wait for their turn for surgeries due to this artificial shortfall.

“All surgeries have been put on hold due to shortage of oxygen,” said Dr Rudra Raj Timsina, who works at Koshi zonal hospital “We have failed to reach an agreement with the aggrieved workers. However, talks are on,” said Ajit Karma, manager, BOI.

The BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences (BPKIHS) based in Dharan — the largest medical facility in the region — also has been hit hard.

“We haven’t been able to conduct any surgeries today. The patients’ queue is increasing by the hour,” said Sagar Tamrakar, administrative officer, BPKIHS.