Two patients who were admitted to the leprosy ward of the district hospital here had a close shave after a portion of the roof caved in. The incident happened on Monday when they were not in their beds.
The incident gave rise to tension and fear among the patients in the hospital.
The leprosy ward in the district hospital is operating out of a 10-to-12-year-old dilapidated building. Six years ago, the roof was repaired and it was found out that the material used in it was of inferior quality.
ADMO Dr Sujata Rani Mishra said the Works Department has been informed about the poor condition of the roof.
On the other hand, Works Department Executive Engineer Maguni Charan Mishra has denied having any knowledge of the poor condition of the roof.
After a thorough investigation in the affected area of the roof, it would either be repaired or a new roof would be laid, he added.