Bhatkal: Residents and local auto-rickshaw drivers have urged Karnataka Health Minister U.T. Khader to address long-pending staff and infrastructure shortages at the Bhatkal Taluk Government Hospital, citing a shortage of doctors, vacant specialist posts, recurring breakdowns of X-ray machines and inadequate supply of essential medicines.

In a memorandum submitted to the minister during his visit to Bhatkal, the residents said the absence of a gynaecologist for over two years has forced many women to seek treatment at private hospitals, while patients requiring specialised care are often referred to Kundapur or Mangaluru.

Responding to the memorandum, Khader assured the delegation that the issues raised would be reviewed with the concerned officials and that necessary action would be taken at the earliest.