Covid-19: Bethany Hospital Shillong reopens after 40-day shutdown

Eastern Mirror Desk
Dimapur, May 23 (EMN): Bethany Hospital, Shillong in Meghalaya has finally reopened to patients about 40 days since it was shut down after a doctor from the facility was tested positive for the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) and subsequently succumbed to the deadly virus.

It is reported that Bethany Hospital reopened on Saturday afternoon (May 23) after the Meghalaya government gave clearance for resumption of operations.

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma took to social media on Saturday to announce the reopening of the healthcare facility.

Bethany Hospital, Shillong, a multi-specialty hospital established in 2002, along with its branch in Nongpoh was sealed off by the Meghalaya government after a doctor from its facility had tested positive for Covid-19 on April 13. The government also imposed a 48-hour curfew in Shillong and Nongpoh following the development.

Unfortunately, the first Covid-19 positive patient of Meghalaya passed away on April 15, becoming the first victim to the virus in the state.

Controversy ensued after the mortal remains of the 69-year-old doctor was denied burial at his farm in Nongpoh by the residents due to fear that the virus might spread. He was again denied cremation at Jhalupara for the same reason before the residents of Mawryngkneng village offered its land for either cremation or burial. The deceased was finally laid to rest at Riatsamthiah Presbyterian Church cemetery on April 16.

A total of 14 Covid-19 cases have been reported in Meghalaya so far, out of which 12 have recovered, one is currently undergoing treatment for the virus and one died.