Message from Chairman, Dr Syed Iftikhar Yusuf
It seemed to donors that the MDAUK charity hospital project in Tandiali (Muzaffarabad) had stalled. However, the delay has been due to stringent and a very proper planning process.
The structural, mechanical, public health and HVAC drawings have been vetted several times by NESPAK to ensure that the hospital building would be able to sustain a future earthquake up to Richter scale 9.
Furthermore, during the last twelve months tender was sought and several meetings were held between MDAUK executive members and construction companies.
The quotations from companies ranged from 1.8 million pounds to 4.3 million pounds. After proper consideration it was felt that even the lowest bid was unreasonable.
Therefore, we have had to select team members consisting of a project director, engineer, supervisor, accounts manager, driver, cook and a labour manager to construct the hospital ourselves.
The initial layout has been minimal and recoupable.
We have bought a vehicle for goods transportation, on-site diesel operated generator, water pump, compressor, vibrator, mixer and we have rented a digger on an hourly cost of Rs1800 (£13.60).
It will take approximately 50 hrs of work to complete the digging and leveling process.
Furthermore, an on-site office has been established with a wireless telephone facility.
Four guards have been recruited with the help of Mr Javed Iqbal (IG police Muzaffarabad) to protect the site which has been completely walled off as well.
Surveyors undertook the initial preparatory work between 06/07/09 till 10/07/09. Marking of the site was completed during that week and the work of digging was commenced on the 14th of July in my presence with the construction of an on-site water storage facility. Digging for the foundation has also commenced.
Following structural excavation anti-termite treatment will be put in place thereafter concreting will begin. With the grace of Allah we managed to reach this far and Inshaallah the project will come to fruition within next two years.
