During the centenary celebration of KEM Hospital on Wednesday, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced the construction of a new building, the ‘Ayushman Shatabdi Tower,’ to address the increasing patient load at the institution.
“The government and administration are committed to supporting KEM Hospital, a cornerstone of patient care. On its centenary, the hospital deserves a state-of-the-art facility like the Ayushman Shatabdi Tower,” Shinde stated.
According to a senior hospital doctor, the proposal for the new building, which has been a long-standing demand, is still in the planning stage. The upcoming structure is expected to feature at least five floors dedicated to operating theatres and ICUs. Senior BMC officials confirmed that detailed plans and funding arrangements will now be worked out following Shinde’s announcement.
Shinde also unveiled plans to establish a Doctor’s Museum at KEM Hospital to honor its medical and social heritage. “Just as senior citizens are pillars of support in families, KEM Hospital is a pillar of support for Mumbai and its surroundings. It has embraced modernity while preserving its heritage,” he remarked.
The announcement was made in the presence of BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani, Additional Municipal Commissioner (Health) Dr. Vipin Sharma, Deputy Commissioner (Public Health) Sanjay Kurhade, and other officials. Shinde also highlighted the dedication of KEM staff, particularly their care for Nurse Aruna Shanbaug, who remained in a vegetative state for 42 years following a 1973 assault and became a symbol of India’s euthanasia debate.
As reported by timesofindia, the initiatives underline the government’s focus on enhancing healthcare infrastructure and preserving the legacy of one of Mumbai’s most iconic medical institutions.