Plastic Waste and Stray Dogs Continue to Plague Guru Nanak Dev Hospital Despite Cleanliness Outsourcing

• Mar 19, 2025

Despite outsourcing cleanliness services to a private agency, Guru Nanak Dev Hospital (GNDH), affiliated with Government Medical College (GMC), continues to struggle with plastic waste accumulation and an increasing stray dog population.

Persistent Plastic Waste Issue

Plastic waste, particularly polythene bags, remains scattered in open spaces within the hospital premises. The waste is collected near the outer wall along Majitha Road and is removed only every two to three days by the Municipal Corporation’s garbage collection teams.

As a 1,500-bed facility that receives over 10,000 visitors daily, the hospital generates a large volume of waste, with 95% of it comprising plastic bags, according to a doctor at the facility.

“If the government strictly enforces the plastic ban, it will significantly reduce garbage not just in the hospital but across the entire city,” the doctor remarked.

In an effort to curb plastic waste, the hospital administration encourages patients to use paper bags instead of polythene bags for carrying medicines. However, a visit to the premises revealed garbage-strewn open spaces near patient wards, with visitors often disregarding designated dustbins.

Stray Dog Menace

Adding to the sanitation concerns, the hospital is also struggling with a rising stray dog population. Dogs can frequently be seen rummaging through garbage heaps, raising concerns about public safety. Many visitors have expressed fear over potential dog attacks, particularly near patient areas.

The problem extends to GMC premises as well, where heaps of waste are regularly dumped, including in a park near the Girls’ Hostel.

Hospital Administration’s Response

GNDH Medical Superintendent Dr. Karamjit Singh acknowledged the issues, stating that 166 workers have been deployed for cleanliness services, with 40 more expected to join soon.

“We will address any shortcomings and improve the cleanliness situation,” he assured.

Regarding the stray dog issue, Dr. Singh emphasized that the hospital has repeatedly raised concerns with the Municipal Corporation, but the problem persists.

“Even after the dogs are removed from the hospital premises, they sneak back through the gates. The Municipal Corporation must take concrete steps to control the stray dog population,” he added.

With waste management and stray dog control remaining major challenges, authorities and civic bodies must implement stricter regulations to ensure a cleaner and safer environment for patients, visitors, and hospital staff.