Ahmedabad Civil Hospital

Ahmedabad Civil Hospital Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Information

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, situated in Ahmedabad, India, is recognized as one of Asia’s largest and most important public healthcare institutions. Since its establishment in 1858, the hospital has grown into a sprawling 110-acre complex, serving as a crucial center for healthcare, medical education, and research. Affiliated with B.J. Medical College, the hospital manages an immense patient load and has played pivotal roles in regional health crises and emergencies (Official Ahmedabad Civil Hospital Website; B.J. Medical College Official Site).

This comprehensive guide details the hospital’s historical development, visitor information including visiting hours and protocols, amenities, crisis response strategies, and practical travel tips. Whether your interest is medical, educational, or historical, this resource is designed to help you navigate and appreciate the institution.

Historical Overview and Legacy
Visitor Information
Campus Layout and Facilities
Crisis Response: The Air India Plane Crash
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Cost, Payment, and Accreditations
Summary and Visitor Recommendations
Sources

Historical Overview and Legacy

Founding and Early Growth (1858–1947)

Ahmedabad Civil Hospital was founded in 1858 through the philanthropy of figures like Shri Hutheesing and Shri Premabhai, with medical direction from Surgeon General D. Wyllie. The initial facility, funded at ₹96,000, accommodated 92 inpatients—marking a milestone in Gujarat’s public health (Official Ahmedabad Civil Hospital Website). Over the following decades, as Ahmedabad’s textile industry flourished, so did the hospital’s services in general medicine, surgery, and maternal care.

Expansion and Academic Integration (Post-1947)

Post-independence, the hospital affiliated with B.J. Medical College, enhancing its role in medical education and research (B.J. Medical College Official Site). The campus expanded to 110 acres, housing essential bodies like the Gujarat Medical Council and Gujarat Nursing Council, and solidifying its position as a major healthcare hub.

Modernization and Infrastructure

Significant infrastructural upgrades have been made, notably the addition of a 1,200-bed building in 2019. This modernization, costing ₹395 crore, introduced advanced medical technology and digital health records. The hospital currently admits around 70,000 patients annually, performs over 26,000 surgeries, and manages 6,500 deliveries each year.

Crisis Response and Public Health

The hospital has repeatedly demonstrated resilience during public health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the devastating Air India Flight AI-171 crash in 2025 (News18 Report). Its ability to rapidly adapt capacity and mobilize resources has earned recognition at the state and national levels.

Rooted in community philanthropy, Ahmedabad Civil Hospital serves diverse populations regardless of economic background. The campus features a blend of colonial-era architecture and contemporary facilities, symbolizing its evolution and lasting legacy.

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

General Visiting: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily
Emergency Department: Open 24/7
Inpatient Wards: Visiting hours may vary by department; always confirm with the specific ward.

Entry & Tickets

Admission: Free entry to hospital premises.
Specialized Services: Some diagnostic or specialty services may require appointments or fees.
Identification: Visitors must carry valid photo ID, particularly for ICU or restricted areas.

Accessibility

Facilities: Ramps, elevators, and wheelchair access throughout.
Assistance: Support is available at main entrances.
Parking: Ample, though may be limited during peak times.

Travel Tips

Location: Centrally located near major public transport, including buses and auto-rickshaws.
Nearby Landmarks: Sabarmati Ashram, Kankaria Lake, and Law Garden Market are within easy reach.

Visitor Amenities

Food: Cafeteria and food stalls offering vegetarian meals, snacks, and beverages.
Waiting Areas: Spacious halls with seating and basic amenities.
Accommodation: Limited dormitory beds for families; nearby guesthouses and hotels for additional lodging (Wikivoyage).
Pharmacy: 24/7 in-house pharmacy with essential medicines at regulated prices.
Blood Bank: Open round-the-clock for donations and transfusions.
Rehabilitation & Counseling: Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and psychological support services are available.

Campus Layout and Facilities

Infrastructure and Medical Facilities

Beds: Over 3,200 across wards, special rooms, and ICUs.
Diagnostic Centers: Imaging, pathology, and laboratory services.
Operation Theaters: Modern surgical suites handling major procedures.
ICUs: Dedicated units for adults, children, and neonates.
Emergency Services: 24/7 trauma and resuscitation units.

Educational and Research Centers

B.J. Medical College: Offers MBBS, MD/MS, and super-specialty programs, admitting 250 undergraduates annually (BJMCABD).
Regulatory Bodies: Home to the Gujarat Medical Council and Nursing Council.

Administrative and Support Facilities

Records & Administration: Secure documentation, billing, and public relations services.
Security: Robust protocols, especially during emergencies (India TV News).

Hygiene, Safety, and Environmental Management

Strict infection control, regular cleaning, and compliant waste disposal are prioritized. During health emergencies, infrastructure is adapted with temporary wards and isolation units (Credihealth).

Transportation

Public Transport: AMTS, BRTS buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis.
Private Vehicles: Parking available, but may fill during peak or crisis periods.
Proximity: Close to the airport and railway stations (India TV News).

Community Outreach

Health Camps: Regularly conducted for preventive healthcare.
Telemedicine: Services extend care to remote areas.
Awareness Campaigns: Focused on public health education.

Crisis Response: The Air India Plane Crash (2025)

Overview

On June 12, 2025, Air India Flight AI-171 crashed near Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, severely impacting the hospital and its neighboring community (The Hindu). The hospital managed a mass influx of casualties and coordinated a complex emergency response.

Casualties and Medical Response

Deaths: Over 265 fatalities, including passengers and nearby residents.
Injuries: Dozens hospitalized with severe injuries.
Emergency Action: Trauma teams mobilized immediately; operations prioritized critical care.

DNA Identification and Victim Support

Forensic Analysis: DNA testing conducted at B.J. Medical College for identification.
Family Support: Helplines established; hospital coordinated with authorities for claims and counseling.

Blood Donation Drives

Urgent Appeals: Blood donation centers set up across the city; community responded robustly.

Government & Emergency Coordination

High-Level Visits: Prime Minister, Union Home Minister, and senior officials visited to oversee relief efforts (News18; Zee News).
Investigation: Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and forensic experts coordinated recovery and investigation.

Counseling: Teams provided trauma counseling for survivors, families, and hospital staff (Hindustan Times).

Operational Impact

Infrastructure Damage: BJ Medical College hostel and vehicles were destroyed.
Staff Response: Extended shifts and logistical support for affected staff and students.

Visitor Protocols During the Crisis

Restricted Entry: Only authorized personnel and relatives allowed entry.
Helplines: Official numbers publicized for information and assistance.
Safety: Advised cooperation with security and participation in donation drives where appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Ahmedabad Civil Hospital’s visiting hours?
A: General visiting hours are 9:00 AM–6:00 PM; emergency services operate 24/7.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No, entry to the hospital is free.

Q: Are accessibility features available?
A: Yes, ramps, elevators, and wheelchair access are provided.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes, but spaces may be limited during busy times.

Q: How do I donate blood?
A: Visit the blood bank with a valid ID for a quick health screening.

Q: Is the hospital a tourist site?
A: Primarily a medical facility; visitors may explore nearby attractions separately.

Cost, Payment, and Accreditations

General Ward: ₹50/day
Special Rooms: ₹2,200/day
ICU Charges: ₹300–₹600/day
Accreditations: NABH accredited; awarded for patient care, safety, and innovation (Credihealth).

Visual Gallery

[Image: Ahmedabad Civil Hospital entrance – alt=“Entrance of Ahmedabad Civil Hospital”]
[Image: New 1,200-bed building – alt=“Modern building of Ahmedabad Civil Hospital”]
[Image: Historical colonial architecture – alt=“Colonial-era building at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital”]

Summary and Visitor Recommendations

Ahmedabad Civil Hospital stands as a beacon of healthcare and education, demonstrating resilience in times of crisis and a steadfast commitment to inclusive, high-quality care. Its rapid response to emergencies, robust infrastructure, and comprehensive patient services underscore its importance to the region. Visitors can expect accessible facilities, clear protocols, and proximity to major city attractions. For up-to-date information and planning, consult the official hospital website and B.J. Medical College site.

Stay connected by downloading the Audiala app, following hospital updates online, and engaging with community health initiatives.