It is reported that nearly half of the 58 acres of land owned by the Kandy National Hospital, Sri Lanka’s second-largest teaching hospital, has been occupied by unauthorized settlers, severely impacting its operations.

The hospital, which features 80 wards, 11 intensive care units, and multiple treatment facilities, serves a large number of patients daily from across the country.

However, ongoing construction of houses, shops, and other buildings on the hospital’s land has hindered its potential for further development.

The unauthorized settlements, including shops, flower stalls, and motorcycle parking, have also obstructed the hospital’s access road, making it challenging to transport critically ill patients in a timely manner.

Hospital officials have called for urgent intervention from authorities to address these issues and ensure the smooth functioning of the Kandy National Hospital.