Foundation stone laid for high risk pregnancy block.

In an attempt to reduce infant and maternal mortality rates in the State, the government had decided to construct a high risk pregnancy block on the Vani Vilas Hospital premises.

Health Minister U.T. Khader and Minister of State for Medical Education Sharan Prakash R. Patil on recently laid the foundation stone for the block. Mr. Khader said the infant mortality and maternal mortality rates were important health indicators that the government was working towards reducing, particularly in North Karnataka districts.

The block, which will include a basement, ground floor and five floors, will be constructed at a cost of Rs. 30 crore.

Out of the Rs. 30 crore, Rs. 13 crore will be given by the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation (BMRCL) and Rs. 17 crore by the State government. The construction work will be done by BMRCL as a part of the land of the Vani Vilas Hospital was given to the BMRCL.