Agartala, June 30: A massive rush of patients was witnessed at GB Pant Hospital in Agartala from Tuesday morning following the closure of private chambers of doctors attached to the hospital.

With patients no longer able to consult these doctors in their private clinics, a large number of people directly approached the state’s premier government hospital for treatment. As a result, the Outpatient Department (OPD) and several other sections of the hospital experienced unusually long queues, with patients and their relatives waiting for extended periods to receive medical attention.

Many patients and their family members alleged that the existing infrastructure and patient-handling capacity of the hospital are inadequate to cope with the sudden increase in the number of visitors. They expressed concern over overcrowding, delays in consultations and the strain on hospital services.

The surge in patient turnout came on the first day after the state government’s decision barring doctors of GB Pant Hospital and AGMC from engaging in private practice came into effect. Hospital authorities are expected to closely monitor the situation and take necessary measures to manage the increased patient load.