Singrauli, MP: A Revenue-Rich District Struggles with Basic Healthcare and Funeral Facilities

Singrauli, Madhya Pradesh: Despite being known as the “Energy Capital” of Madhya Pradesh and contributing significantly to the state’s revenue, Singrauli district continues to face severe infrastructure gaps. Recent incidents highlight the district’s lack of basic healthcare and funeral transport facilities.

No Hearse Available for Post-Mortem
A shocking incident in Itawa village under Sarai police station revealed the grim reality. During a post-mortem of a murder victim, the authorities did not have a proper hearse. Forced to improvise, the Sarai Municipal Council used a garbage trolley—normally employed for waste collection—to transport the body to the mortuary. Relatives then returned the deceased home using the same trolley. The incident was captured on video, which quickly went viral on social media, drawing widespread criticism of the administration.

According to CMO Surendra of Sarai Municipal Council, the council does not currently have a hearse, and officials are forced to make do with available resources. Public anger is growing following the viral footage, and an official investigation may be ordered.

Critical Healthcare Access Issue
Another disturbing incident occurred in Churwahi village, Devsar block, where an 80-year-old woman had to be carried on a charpai (woven cot) to the hospital due to poor road connectivity. The ambulance reportedly arrived two hours late, and by then, the patient’s condition had worsened. Her son, Pradeep Shah, stated that they had to transport her approximately one kilometer on foot over a narrow path inaccessible to vehicles.

Revenue vs. Development Gap
Singrauli remains one of the highest revenue-contributing districts in Madhya Pradesh, second only to Indore. Yet, many areas still suffer from lack of development. MLA Rajendra Meshram acknowledged the challenges but highlighted ongoing work under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), aimed at providing road connectivity to villages with populations above 250. He said the approval for this area’s road is already underway.

Conclusion
These incidents expose the stark contrast between Singrauli’s revenue contribution and the district’s on-ground development, underlining the urgent need for improved healthcare, road infrastructure, and funeral facilities.