The prolonged delay in the opening of a much-needed veterinary hospital in Vasai has sparked frustration among animal lovers and concerned citizens. Despite four years of anticipation, the facility remains incomplete, with crucial work like electrical fittings and furniture installation dragging on. Initially scheduled to be operational by mid-2023, the project is now causing increasing anxiety as the lack of a government veterinary hospital in the Vasai-Virar region continues to endanger the welfare of local animals.
Vasai, home to a wide array of animal species, sees frequent cases of animals needing medical attention due to injuries or illnesses. In the absence of a functioning government veterinary facility, residents are forced to transport injured animals to distant locations such as Navi Mumbai, leading to increased expenses and risk to animal lives. Citizens and animal welfare organisations have long advocated for a dedicated veterinary hospital in Vasai to address this critical gap in infrastructure.
Construction of the 6,800 square-foot facility in Sandor, Vasai West, began in October 2021 under the supervision of the Public Works Department (PWD) and an estimated budget of INR 3.50 crore. Yet, despite significant progress in structural development, the final completion has been hindered by sluggish internal work, leading to growing concerns. Animal lovers fear that if the hospital remains unused for too long, it could fall into disrepair, further delaying the long-overdue services. While the PWD initially stated that 90% of the hospital would be completed by June 2023, work has since slowed, with the delay attributed to poor planning and resource management.
According to citizens, even minor tasks are taking an inordinate amount of time, leaving the hospital non-functional. The facility, when fully operational, is expected to offer advanced services, including X-rays, sonography, surgeries, laboratory facilities, and other critical treatments for animals. In the absence of government-run veterinary care in Vasai, the continued delay not only leaves injured and sick animals without immediate help but also amplifies the strain on the community, who have repeatedly voiced their concerns. As the region awaits this essential service, the call for accountability and accelerated progress grows louder, with many urging authorities to expedite the work before the situation worsens.
