Nepal's BPKIHS Unveils 400-Bed Maternal Health Hub as Government Pledges Massive Infrastructure Boost
Health Minister Nisha Mehta announces the imminent operationalization of BPKIHS's new 400-bed Maternal and Child Health Center, backed by expanded ICU capacity and critical medical equipment to serve thousands of daily patients.
The B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences (BPKIHS) in Dharan is set to transform maternal and child healthcare in Nepal with the near-completion of a groundbreaking 400-bed Maternal and Child Health (MCH) building. Health and Food Hygiene Minister Nisha Mehta, accompanied by Home Minister Sudhan Gurung during an inspection in Sunsari, confirmed that the newly constructed facility will be operationalized soon, marking a major milestone for one of the country's busiest health institutions.
According to institute data, BPKIHS treats approximately 3,500 patients daily, with 30% of the crowd consisting of Indian nationals crossing the border for care. This surge in demand underscores the critical need for the expanded infrastructure. The new MCH building will initially dedicate 200 beds specifically to maternal and child services, with the remaining beds planned for specialized care to further enhance treatment outcomes.
Minister Mehta emphasized that the government is fully committed to expanding services and infrastructure at the institute. Beyond the new building, the administration is prioritizing the provision of necessary manpower and advanced medical equipment to ensure quality healthcare delivery. These efforts include a significant increase in ICU capacity, which has been upgraded from 32 to 74 beds, and an expansion of dialysis services from 10 to 23 beds.
Vice Chancellor Dr. Gyanendra Giri highlighted that the institute is not just adding beds but is modernizing its entire service model. The facility now houses two post-natal wards, an ANC room, a store, and a dedicated maternity unit, creating a comprehensive environment for pregnant mothers and newborns. Patients, who comprise mainly pregnant mothers, have expressed joy over the new amenities.
This infrastructure push aligns with Nepal's broader success in reducing maternal and newborn mortality through government initiatives, skilled birth attendants, and national policies that have eliminated user fees for newborn care. As BPKIHS continues to serve as a regional hub for eight districts, the addition of the MCH center represents a vital step toward providing holistic, socially responsible healthcare to millions of families across Nepal and the bordering regions.