Agartala, Nov 11 (PTI) The Tripura government has initiated steps to set up a 50-bed dedicated cancer hospital in Kailashahar in Unakoti district to provide specialised treatment closer to patients in the state’s northern region, officials said.
The proposed facility will be established adjacent to the Unakoti District Hospital and cater to cancer patients from Unakoti, North Tripura and Dhalai districts, reducing their dependence on Agartala for advanced medical care.
Social Welfare and Social Education Minister Tinku Roy visited the proposed site on Wednesday afternoon to assess the feasibility of the project. He was accompanied by Unakoti Chief Medical Officer Shirshendu Chakma, District Hospital Medical Superintendent Dr Rohan Paul and other Health Department officials.
During the inspection, Roy held discussions with the officials regarding land availability, the proposed location, infrastructure requirements and other technical aspects of the project.
The minister said the government was actively considering the establishment of a specialised cancer treatment centre in Kailashahar as part of its efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure in the northern districts.
Officials said the proposal was currently at a preliminary stage and a detailed survey would be conducted to assess the suitability of the identified land.
Following the survey, a Detailed Project Report (DPR) will be prepared, outlining the hospital’s infrastructure requirements, estimated expenditure, proposed medical facilities and implementation strategy.
Further decisions regarding construction and execution of the project will be taken after completion of the preliminary assessments and necessary administrative formalities, they said.
At present, cancer patients from Unakoti, North Tripura and Dhalai districts frequently have to travel to Agartala for specialised diagnosis, treatment and follow-up consultations.
The long journeys not only increase the financial burden on patients and their families but also create logistical difficulties, particularly for those requiring prolonged treatment and regular medical attention.
The proposed hospital is expected to improve access to oncology services in the region and reduce pressure on specialised healthcare institutions in the state capital.
The initiative is part of the government’s broader efforts to decentralise specialised medical services and ensure a more balanced distribution of healthcare infrastructure across Tripura.
Local residents have welcomed the proposal and expressed hope that the necessary surveys and administrative procedures would be completed at the earliest.
Once operational, the proposed 50-bed facility would strengthen the state’s cancer care network and provide patients in the northern districts with access to specialised treatment closer to their homes.
