The state’s premier referral hospital, GB Pant Hospital often touted as a symbol of the Double Engine government’s development narrative is currently functioning with only a single X-ray machine, resulting in unimaginable delays and suffering for patients.

Several patients and their families, some of whom have traveled from remote parts of the state, have reported waiting as long as six to eight hours to get a basic X-ray. 

Fracture patients, often in severe pain, are forced to stand in long queues without access to basic amenities such as fans or seating arrangements.

A patient from Bishalgarh sub division said they arrived at 7 AM and were still waiting in line by 3 PM, with hospital staff estimating another two-hour delay.

“There is no place for poor people to go. We come from far away, and still have to suffer for hours,” she lamented.

Another patient expressed frustration, saying, “It’s been since morning—standing in line for four hours. Still no sign of when I’ll be called. If this is a hospital, why are we being treated like this?”

The delays are not only physically exhausting but also disruptive to timely medical care. Patients are often forced to return home without consultation if the X-ray isn’t done by 4 PM—the deadline to see doctors in many departments. “If I don’t get my X-ray today, I’ll have to hire a car and come back again tomorrow. What kind of system is this?” asked a woman accompanying a patient.

The absence of even a functional fan near the X-ray department has added to the suffering, especially for elderly and critically ill patients. 

“Most patients here are in pain, yet they have to stand for hours without a fan in this heat. Some are fainting, others are just enduring in silence,” said another concerned relative.

Many now fear that such systemic neglect could cost lives. “This is how people die without treatment. If the government really cares about healthcare, GB Hospital needs urgent attention,” said a patient angrily.

The grim situation at GB Hospital has once again raised questions about the condition of Tripura’s public health infrastructure. 

Despite being the largest government-run hospital in the state, patients say that the facility is deteriorating fast, with minimal signs of improvement.