In a compassionate move, AIIMS Delhi has operationalised the Ashray facility with Central Reserve Police Force support, offering safe night shelter to around 250 patients and attendants. Eco-friendly electric buses ferry them from OPD queues, providing free food, blankets, and toilets while preserving their OPD token order for next-day registration. This fully utilised initiative eases overcrowding and sets a healthcare dignity benchmark.
Patients travelling from across India to AIIMS Delhi often endure sleepless nights on pavements or hospital grounds, battling cold winds and uncertainty just to secure an early OPD slot. The new Ashray facility transforms this ordeal into one of comfort and order. Night arrivals are spotted proactively and shuttled via electric buses to the dedicated shelter, ensuring no one faces the elements alone.
Director Dr M Srinivas highlighted how this addresses longstanding overcrowding challenges at the premier institute, which sees thousands daily. Basic amenities like hygienic toilets and clean blankets restore dignity during vulnerable waits. Come morning, the same green transport returns everyone to OPDs in sequence, eliminating chaotic early rushes.
Key Highlights
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Nightly Transport Solution
Eco-friendly electric shuttle buses make multiple trips between 9-11 pm from AIIMS gates to Ashray, proactively picking up queued patients and attendants for seamless relocation.
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Full Capacity Demand
The 250-person facility runs at maximum utilisation daily, underscoring urgent need among outstation visitors seeking specialised care.
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Free Essentials Provided
Shelter offers complimentary meals from AIIMS kitchens, warm blankets, and clean facilities, prioritising health and comfort overnight.
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Ordered OPD Flow
Tokens issued on arrival maintain exact reporting sequence for next-day registration, preventing loss of place in line.
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Expansion on Horizon
Officials eye future growth based on space and rising demand, enhancing crowd management further.
This model blends sustainability, security, and empathy, potentially inspiring other hospitals nationwide. By tackling overnight hardships head-on, AIIMS reinforces patient-centric care in public health.
Sources: Hindustan Times, The Economic Times, PTI News