Regarding the latest proposal to convert the Parsi Lying-In Hospital (PLIH) into a multispecialty hospital for orthopedic, spine and sports medicine, the first question that comes to mind is whether this hospital will be open to all communities. If not, what’s the point? We already have The B. D. Petit Parsee General Hospital which is struggling to remain afloat.
The Parsi Lying-In Hospital
Wouldn’t it be wiser to convert the PLIH into an old people’s home for Parsis? If a maternity hospital is not required for the community, surely an old people’s home is? Many elderly community members would welcome the opportunity to live with dignity in a decent home where their needs would be taken care of. There could be separate wings for different economic sections and also one where married couples could be allowed to stay together instead of the usual segregation into a ladies and a gents wing.
If the lower floor is rented out to retail outlets, the income generated would be enough to sustain and run the home. Perhaps a Parsi business house would show interest in taking up the space for one of their retail ventures?
The editors reply:
The proposed hospital will be cosmopolitan. It is to be run as a commercial enterprise and is meant to generate income for the trust. Shops will not be permitted as the collector’s lease states that the land is to be utilized for a hospital.