Hospital Seeks Smarter Space: AIIMS Eyes Logistics Shift Close to Safdarjung

Image Source: ET HealthWorld

In an attempt to counter its chronic space deficit, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, is seeking to acquire land adjacent to the Safdarjung Airport for establishing a centralized logistics hub. The proposal involves remodeling the institute's supply chain management and warehousing facilities.

Major Developments

- AIIMS Director Dr. M Srinivas also issued an internal order that revealed the acute lack of space for shops and logistics in the main campus.
- Temporary solutions like the recycling of vacant residential units are becoming impossible since the units are being refurbished to host new residents.
- The new logistics park would be located on plots available close to Safdarjung Airport, offering proximity and connectivity advantages.
- The hub will likely streamline distribution, procurement, and inventory chains in AIIMS departments, streamlining operations.
Strategic significance
- Safdarjung is optimal due to proximity to AIIMS and potential integration with airport logistics in the future.
- A centralized hub would reduce fragmentation of supply and storage activities, presently dispersed in ad-hoc locations
- The initiative is part of AIIMS's larger modernization drive, including digital health programs and infrastructure development.

Next Steps

- The Director has instructed the Superintending Engineer and Additional Director (Admin) to examine the viability of purchasing the land plot.
- Land assessment and stakeholder consultation should then be conducted, with emphasis on urban planning coordination and regulatory permits.

Sources: The New Indian Express, AIIMS Official Memorandum