Jajpur, Odisha – The much-anticipated Trauma Care Centre at Panikoili in Jajpur district, approved in 2020, is yet to become functional, according to recent reports from June 2025. The facility was planned to provide critical medical services, particularly for accident victims on the busy national highway.
The Odisha government’s Health and Family Welfare Department had approved the project in October 2020, with an estimated cost of Rs 70 crore for a 100-bed facility. The decision to establish the center at Panikoili was made due to the convergence of two major highways, a location prone to accidents. The project was seen as a significant step to save the lives of accident victims in Jajpur and surrounding areas.
However, a report from June 2025 indicates that the Trauma Care Centre remains non-operational even after five years since its foundation was laid in March 2019. The building, though constructed, is reportedly yet to be equipped and staffed with doctors, pharmacists, and other necessary personnel. This delay has led to growing frustration among the local populace, who have threatened protests if the center is not made functional soon.
The delay in the operationalization of the Panikoili Trauma Care Centre was also linked to the construction of the Jajpur Medical College and Hospital (MCH). The site for the MCH was selected in Ankula after an agreement was reached to establish the trauma care facility at Panikoili to address local demands.
While the new trauma center remains closed, the Jajpur District Headquarters Hospital continues to be the primary government healthcare facility in the area. However, this hospital has recently been in the news for other reasons, including allegations of medical negligence.