Green Shield: Patna Medical College and Hospital. Telegraph picture

Patna, Aug. 21: Visitors to Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) will no more face problems while waiting for healthcare. The health hub authorities have decided to plant saplings across the hospital campus in a bid to go green and also provide a cool place for visitors to wait.

PMCH principal Dr N.P. Yadav told The Telegraph: “There is hardly any greenery on campus. We have decided to do something environment friendly. We shall plant 101 plants across the campus over the next six months. These trees would provide shade. Most of the saplings would be planted near the college playground, wards and the principal’s office.”

To begin with, the health hub authorities have planted eight Saraca Ashoka trees and seven mango trees near the college playground on August 15.

Yadav said: “Saraca Ashoka trees attract bees, butterflies and birds as its flowers are fragrant. Mango trees are also known for their shade. The trees will also provide visitors with an alternative space to rest, as the hospital does not have enough waiting halls. Spectators for matches in the playground can also sit in the shade of these trees as there is no stand for them.”

He also said 20 to 25 saplings would be planted every two months. “We will get the saplings from a nursery in Hajipur. It is not only important to plant the sapling but also to ensure that they survive and grow to serve their purpose.”

Relatives of the patients admitted in the hospital welcomed the move.

Madhubani resident Meena Pandey, whose daughter is admitted in the Tata ward, said: “I am here with my daughter for the past month and a half. At night, we have to sleep in the corridors. Many also sleep outside. Things are worse during the day, as we cannot move out of the ward and sit in the heat. As a result, the corridors and rooms are badly cramped. Shady trees on the campus would allow attendants of patients to take rest.”

Not everyone, however, was convinced that trees could be an alternative for facilities.

“This is all a farce. How can trees ensure enhanced facilities for people who do not have a place to sit on the campus? While the step is good for the environment, it will do little good to patients and their relatives who suffer because of lack of facilities like attendants’ rooms,” said Vinay Kumar, who had come to visit his wife, a patient.