A public interest litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Telangana High Court challenging the government’s plan to build a new Osmania General Hospital at Goshamahal Grounds. RTI activist G Ramu initiated the PIL, questioning the government’s decision. The court has issued notices to the government, asking for a response.
Senior advocate L Ravichander represented the petitioner, G Ramu, in court. The previous government aimed to build the new facility without affecting the historical site of the current hospital. The proposed hospital at Goshamahal is planned to be an advanced medical facility.
The Revanth Reddy government proposed a Rs 2,700 crore project for the new hospital, which would meet international standards. The facility will cover 26 acres and 30 guntas with a 32 lakh square feet built-up area. Currently, Osmania Hospital has 1,168 beds, but the new design includes 2,000 beds and a 500-bed ICU. The number of departments will increase from 22 to 30.
Local residents are unhappy with the relocation plan. They formed the Goshamahal Parirakshana Samithi to voice their concerns. Locals argue that the Goshamahal area already suffers from traffic congestion due to narrow roads and busy markets.
Nearby, Begum Bazar hosts a large fish market, and the area also features the biggest Kirana and plastic market, causing constant traffic. The annual Industrial Exhibition held in January and February adds to the traffic issues. Locals worry that a new hospital would worsen these problems. The government has already removed two petrol stations and a police horse training institute from the area to make room for the project.
