In olden days, people were reluctant to go for institutional deliveries leading to deaths
Government Victoria Hospital
Visakhapatnam: The Government Victoria Hospital, famous as Gosha hospital, is the first woman and child care hospital in the city. It has been serving people of the city since more than a century, but very few youngsters are aware of its historic importance. “Gosha means seclusion. In olden days, women were kept in seclusion or away from people as per then tradition and culture. Hence, people were reluctant to go for institutional delivery, which was leading to more maternal and infant mortality,” said a heritage conservationist Edward Paul.
“Concerned over the high mortality rate, King Godey Naraian Gajapati Row bought land along with a building in 1894 to run a hospital from here. He is also said to be maintaining the hospital in the initial years. Eminent lady doctor Hilda Lazarus also served in the hospital,” he added. “As per the rule, the King had sought permission from Queen Victoria to name the hospital after her. In 1949, the Government of Madras took over its administration. Now, the hospital has three units with 150 beds and has recently been renovated with new blocks,” Mr Paul added.
“The hospital is really a blessing for Visakhapat-nam people and also has historical significance. However, sheer apathy on the part of administration has made the more than 100-year-old hospital just like other normal facility,” B. Anil Kumar, a resident of Poorna Market said. “The old buildings on the premises are in such a bad shape that you will not find any difference in the hospital, unless you know about the historical aspect,” he added.
Hospital superintendent Dr Padma Leela said, “The drains are posing problem to the old buildings. However, a special fund has been sanctioned to construct an underground drainage system to protect the historical structure.” One of the old buildings on the premises being used as female welfare is in a dilapidated condition and needs to be demolished, she said. It will be good on the part of the state to renovate the ancient hospital.
( Source : deccan chronicle )
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