GORAKHPUR, Nov. 1 -- Nearly five years after its formal inauguration, the Cath Lab at AIIMS Gorakhpur is yet to become operational, raising concerns over the availability of specialised cardiac services at the premier medical institution. The issue came into focus after its executive director, Major General (Retd) Dr Vibha Dutta, had to visit a private hospital for further cardiac evaluation. AIIMS Gorakhpur began outpatient services in February 2019 and was formally inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 7, 2021. Envisioned as a major centre for advanced medical treatment for patients from eastern Uttar Pradesh and neighbouring Bihar, the institute was expected to strengthen access to specialised healthcare in the region. However, the continued delay in operationalising its Cath Lab has raised questions about the readiness of critical healthcare infrastructure. Dr Dutta reportedly experienced sudden dizziness and briefly lost consciousness at her residence on Wednesday. She was rushed to the emergency department of AIIMS Gorakhpur, where doctors provided initial treatment and conducted preliminary investigations. After her condition stabilised, she was taken to a private hospital for further cardiac assessment. She was reportedly taken to the private facility at around 5 pm to assess whether she required a pacemaker. However, after examining her medical reports, doctors ruled out the need for the procedure. She returned home around 8 pm. Dr Dutta said she had suddenly felt dizzy and briefly lost consciousness. She added that her initial treatment and investigations were conducted at AIIMS Gorakhpur. "Doctors examined my reports and found everything normal. There was no need for any further treatment," she said, according to media reports. Meanwhile, AIIMS Gorakhpur said that nearly 70% of the work required to operationalise the Cath Lab had been completed. The institute added that the procurement and installation of the required machinery and equipment were underway. The facility is expected to become operational by December 2026....