Authorities concerned are yet to reconstruct the quake-damaged Rasuwa District Hospital even more than two years after the disaster.

The major health facility in the district has been providing services from tents in Dhunche, the district headquarters. The temporary tents set up soon after the quake by the Canadian Red Cross are still being used as the district hospital. But the tents are no more in good condition. 

Dr Jhalak Gautam, chief of the hospital, said health workers as well as patients have to use umbrella when it rains. “Service delivery has been hugely affected due to lack of a proper building for the hospital,” he added. “Maternity, dental and X-ray services have been hit hard.” 

Patients admitted to the hospital have to stay in flimsy tents in pitiable condition. 

The hospital said new mothers, children, the elderly and asthma patients are facing problems receiving treatment in such flimsy structures. “During winter, it is very tough to protect the newborns from cold,” said Dr Gautam. 

The 15-bed hospital building was completely destroyed in the April 25, 2015 quake. The hospital is functioning from the seven tents that were pitched on the hospital premises soon after the quake. 

Around 50 to 60 patients visit the hospital daily, according to officials. A prefabricated building is, however, being constructed now with the financial assistance of the Canadian Red Cross. 

The Nepal Red Cross Society, Rasuwa, said the hospital reconstruction will be completed in a few months. The Canadian Red Cross has provided Rs 42.4 million for the hospital reconstruction. 

Of the 19 health facilities in the districts, buildings of 14 were destroyed by the quake. Eleven health posts have been reconstructed so far.