Sushruta is Delhi’s only “standalone” trauma centre, detached from a hospital.

Upset with the mismanagement, Balchandran said the experiment for a standalone trauma centre had “failed” and the government had to now take corrective measures. According to those present during the inspection, Balachandran even said the project would be “junked” unless authorities pulled up their socks.

“Whether a trauma centre should be standalone is a debatable topic,” he said. “I cannot come to the conclusion that the centre is beyond repair after a single visit. It is a dynamic situation and we have to take necessary decisions in due course.”

Insiders said patient care is suffering at the city’s biggest trauma management facility largely due to friction between the administration and surgeons. “Doctors do not have basic facilities like clean drinking water, and even space to sit. But the administration harasses most doctors over attendance, though they know we put in long hours,” a doctor, requesting anonymity, said. “We have only five specialists; the radiologist has already applied for a transfer. Now we plan to meet the health secretary to voice our complaints.”

Trauma centre Medical Superintendent Dr Yadu Lal, however, said there was “nothing serious” about the special secretary’s warning. “It was a routine visit. He has directed us to improve certain things. We are trying to improve our services,” Dr Lal said.

The 72-bed centre was attached to Lok Nayak Hospital when inaugurated in 1999. It depended on the hospital for services of forensic experts, dental surgeons, ENT doctors, chest specialists, cardiologists, paediatric surgeons and urologists.