Karachi (Digital Posts) Expensive Food Items Being Sold at Jinnah Hospital Canteen, Concerns Over Alleged Administrative Negligence

Karachi (Digital Posts) Expensive Food Items Being Sold at Jinnah Hospital Canteen, Concerns Over Alleged Administrative Negligence

According to details, expensive food and beverage items are reportedly being sold at the newly established canteen of Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (Jinnah Hospital), one of the major public healthcare institutions in the city. Patients’ attendants and citizens have expressed serious concern over the situation.

Sources state that potato samosas are being sold for Rs. 50 and chicken samosas for Rs. 60, while the same items are available in the market at comparatively lower prices. Similarly, a regular cup of tea is being sold for Rs. 80 and a full cup for Rs. 100. Citizens have pointed out that many other hotels offer a half cup (cutting tea) option, but this facility is not available at the hospital canteen.

Furthermore, lentils, vegetables, chicken curry, and other meals are reportedly being sold at arbitrary prices, placing a heavy financial burden on poor patients’ attendants. People coming from across Sindh and other parts of the country have stated that food items in a government hospital should be available at affordable rates, as most visitors belong to low-income groups seeking medical treatment.

Citizens have alleged that the canteen contract has been awarded for a substantial amount and, due to the lack of effective checks and balances, expensive and allegedly substandard food continues to be sold. During Ramadan, the rush at the canteen increases, further worsening the situation, and out-of-town visitors are compelled to purchase overpriced items due to lack of alternatives.

The public has urged the hospital administration, particularly Executive Director Professor Dr. Khalid Sher, Joint Executive Director Dr. Muhammad Salman, and Deputy Director Dr. Adeel Samoon, to immediately reduce the prices, form a proper monitoring committee to oversee quality and quantity, and seek monthly reports.

Citizens have further demanded that the Sindh Food Authority be formally notified in writing so that the quality of food items used in the canteen can be inspected and immediate relief may be provided to underprivileged patients.