Health Secretary visits Sangrur hospital after saline mishap; Assures action against guilty if samples found unfit

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Sangrur, March 13 2025 (Bharat Khabarnama Bureau) In the wake of a concerning incident at Sangrur Civil Hospital today morning where 15 women experienced health deterioration due to the infusion of normal saline water, Principal Secretary of Health, Kumar Rahul, visited the hospital in the evening to assess the situation and ensure necessary measures were in place.
The incident sparked concern among the patients prompting the Health Department to swiftly intervene. Oxygen support and all medical care were provided to the affected patients, leading to significant improvement in their condition.
While addressing the media Rahul confirmed, “All 14 patients are now stable and the three, who faced severe health issues, have recovered. I personally spoke to them and ensured they are receiving the best care.”
He praised the medical team for their prompt response, stating, “Doctors have attended to the patients very well and there is no need to refer any patient to another facility.”
In a decisive move the Health Department has halted the use of saline water across all government hospitals in the Punjab until further notice. Samples of the saline have been collected and sent for laboratory testing with results expected within two to three days. Rahul emphasized, “If the samples are found to be unfit, strict action will be taken against the supplier or firm responsible.”
The Health Secretary also assured that the department would provide all necessary facilities to Sangrur Civil Hospital. The Punjab government has been fully committed to ensure the safety and well-being of patients across the state.
Meanwhile, Senior Medical Officer (SMO) Dr. Baljeet Singh, who is overseeing the treatment of the affected women, has stated, “As soon as we realized the condition of the 15 women, our entire medical team acted swiftly to intensify healthcare services. All necessary measures were taken to stabilize their health. At present, all patients are out of danger, and their condition is being continuously monitored to ensure a full recovery.”
Dr. Baljeet Singh also emphasized that the hospital staff is working round-the-clock to provide the best possible care. “We are leaving no stone unturned to ensure the well-being of these patients. Their health is our top priority,” he added.