A Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report has uncovered shocking lapses in Delhi’s healthcare system, revealing that hundreds of crores meant for COVID-19 relief went unutilized, while hospitals struggled with staff shortages, delayed projects, and crumbling infrastructure.
Unspent Funds, Healthcare Workers Neglected
Of the ₹787 crore allocated by the Centre, only ₹582 crore was spent, with a mere ₹30 crore directed toward healthcare workers’ welfare. The report highlights a severe misallocation of resources, raising questions about governance during a critical period.
#BREAKING: A CAG report reveals mismanagement in Delhi’s healthcare sector during COVID-19. Of the ₹787 crore allocated by the Centre, only ₹582 crore was spent, with just ₹30 crore used for healthcare workers' funds. Despite a target of 32,000 beds from 2016-2021, only 1,357… pic.twitter.com/kah0WP1rN0
— IANS (@ians_india) February 28, 2025
Hospital Expansion Fails, Staff Shortages Worsen
Between 2016 and 2021, the Delhi government aimed to add 32,000 hospital beds, but only 1,357 were actually created—a dismal 4% achievement. This left public hospitals severely overcrowded, forcing patients to scramble for medical care.
Critical Projects Delayed for Years
The Indira Gandhi and Burari hospitals, vital for Delhi’s healthcare infrastructure, were stalled for six years, causing escalating costs and severe infrastructure gaps. The delays crippled the city’s ability to handle health emergencies, including the devastating COVID-19 waves.