Morang – The holding center built in Biratnagar after the COVID-19 pandemic has remained unused. Constructed post-2074 at a cost of approximately 285 million rupees, the center was designed with facilities such as accommodation for 22 patients, rooms for two doctors, 1,000 beds, 15 kitchens, and 22 toilets and bathrooms. Additionally, it features 22 isolation lines.
Discussions with the federal government have been ongoing about how to utilize the center, which was built with support from three tiers of government. Koshi Province’s Health Ministry Secretary, Dr. Yaduchandra Ghimire, mentioned efforts were being made to determine how similar holding centers in Biratnagar and other regions could be utilized. According to Dr. Ghimire, there is emphasis on bringing the center into use according to regional and geographical needs. He explained that the local level could provide guidance on its usage—whether for security purposes, as an agricultural market, or for healthcare services. The provincial government has informed the federal government and discussions have been held, but no definitive plan has been decided.
Regarding the center located in Ward No. 16 of the metropolitan area, Ward Chairman Uddhav Bhujel stated that repeated requests have been made to the provincial government for its utilization. After its construction in 2078 with support from local, provincial, and federal governments, Bhujel highlighted that there has been minimal use aside from security provided by a Nepal Army team.
Bhujel expressed frustration, noting, “We have pushed the provincial government numerous times to utilize this center. Suggestions were made to create a birthing center, a children’s hospital, or a technical education school given the hospital-like structure and existing isolation facilities. However, the government has not responded.” The center, spread over approximately 5 bigahs, currently has an army team deployed for protection. Meanwhile, many of the resources and equipment remain unused, leading to deterioration over time. Bhujel also pointed out that constructing a birthing center or children’s hospital there could attract patients from both Nepal and India due to its border proximity.
