Uncertainty over medical college in Talcher as MCL contemplates to back out

Talcher: With the Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) deciding to step down from management and operational responsibilities of under-construction Mahanadi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (MIMSR), the future of the 500-crore worth project aimed to provide better healthcare facilities for the mining town has become uncertain.

In 2008, the MCL had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the state government to look after all necessary management and operation of the Institute. 20 acres of land was also allotted for the project and a budget of nearly Rs 500 crore was also allocated for the same. Later in 2015, the Chief Minister laid foundation stone for the 100-seater medical college and 500-bed super speciality hospital.

However, the MCL recently sent a notice to the state government informing it about its decision to step down from the deal.

“The civil construction of the medical college is almost over and finishing touch is being given to the institute. Other fitting works are continuing in main building and also in hostels and official quarters. We are going as per schedule. Our decision to step down from the deal has become a matter of debate. Discussions are underway and final decision will be taken,” L N Mishra, Director Personnel, MCL said.

On the other hand, local MLA said pressure will be put on the MCL to withdraw their decision. “All necessary clearances and permission from the Medical Council of India (MCI) and State's forest department are yet to be given to the institute. In coming days health minister will call for a meeting in which the MCL authorities will be pressurised to stick to the MoU,” Talcher MLA Brajakishore Pradhan said.

Meanwhile, district administration is hopeful that the medical college would be ready to intake admissions from the next academic session.