NT Reporter
Panaji
Goa Human Rights Commission (GHRC) has directed the Directorate of Health Services (DHS) to establish a round-the-clock emergency care centre in Chorao within 90 days, following a complaint by island resident Yuvraj Mandrekar.
The order, passed on February 5 after a hearing presided over by acting chairperson Desmond D’Costa and member Pramod V Kamat, marks a decisive intervention in addressing the healthcare crisis affecting over 5,000 residents of the island.
Dr Urmila Gauns, medical officer representing the DHS, was present at the proceedings and submitted a reply on behalf of
the respondent.
The GHRC directive comes in response to Mandrekar’s complaint highlighting the life-threatening consequences of inadequate medical facilities on the island.
The absence of night time emergency care has resulted in critical delays for patients requiring urgent medical attention, as accessing the mainland hospitals necessitates crossing the Mandovi River via ferry.
In another development, Directorate of Health Services has moved forward a proposal dated
January 22, 2026.
The purchase and disposal section of the Directorate of Health Services has moved forward a proposal dated January 22, 2026, requesting government approval for the emergency care centre project.
The proposal outlines a capital expenditure of Rs 21.76 lakh and an operational expenditure of Rs 3.75 lakh per month, totalling Rs 45 lakh annually, with an overall project cost of Rs 67.76 lakh.
The document emphasises the urgent requirement for establishing the facility at rural medical dispensary (RMD) in Chorao under the primary health centre at Mayem, noting the severe lack of round-the-clock medical services in the area.
The GHRC has ordered that a copy of its directive be sent to the respondent, calling for detailed comments on actions taken or proposed within the 90-day timeframe. The proceeding was disposed of under Section 18(e) of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, ensuring continued monitoring of the implementation process.
