Forest Minister Lepcha pays surprise visit to Hee-Gyathang PHC, reviews healthcare and disaster readiness

Sikkim's Forest and Environment Minister, Pintso Namgyal Lepcha, who also serves as the Area MLA of Dzongu, paid a surprise visit to the Hee-Gyathang Primary Health Centre (PHC) to inspect its functioning, interact with medical staff and patients, and assess the area’s disaster preparedness.

The visit saw the presence of Upadhyaksha of Mangan, Sonam Kipa Bhutia, along with Zilla members, gram panchayat members, and officials from various line departments. Senior officers from the Forest Department, including the Range Officer (RO) and Head Forest Guard (HFG), also joined the inspection team. Representatives of the ruling SKM party and staff members of the PHC including doctors, nurses, and support personnel were present during the inspection.

During the visit, Minister Lepcha thoroughly examined the availability of essential medicines and supplies at the PHC. He interacted directly with the medical officer on duty and walked through the facility to understand the current condition of the infrastructure. The Minister discussed key concerns such as maintenance, staffing issues, and the need for timely availability of medicines and resources for both regular and emergency care.

He also took time to meet and interact with patients receiving treatment at the centre. With folded hands and kind words, the Minister wished all the patients a speedy recovery and assured them of full government support in ensuring better healthcare services in the region.

In addition to health-related matters, the Minister reviewed the disaster preparedness measures in place in the Dzongu region. Given the region’s vulnerability to landslides and natural disasters, the Minister emphasized the importance of coordination among departments and readiness at the grassroots level, especially through health centres and local bodies.