BJ Medical College Students Run Canteens Feeding 1,200 Medicos Post-Tragedy
On the campus of BJ Medical College, Ahmedabad, a remarkable story of resilience and community spirit has emerged following a tragic crash that deeply affected the student body. Despite the sorrow and disruption caused by the accident that claimed the lives of four students and many others, the medicos have demonstrated incredible strength by organizing a student-run canteen system that feeds around 1,200 medical students three times a day.
The Tragedy That Changed Everything
Nearly one year ago, a devastating crash occurred, resulting in the loss of 241 passengers and crew members aboard, along with 19 people on the ground in the vicinity of BJ Medical College. Among those were four students, and about 50 others sustained injuries. This catastrophic event shook the campus community profoundly.
In the aftermath, the central mess—the college’s primary dining facility—was shut down. This closure posed a significant challenge for the students who rely heavily on on-campus meal facilities for sustenance between their demanding schedules of lectures and hospital shifts.
Student Initiative: A Network of Canteens
Facing the absence of the central mess, the medical students quickly mobilized to create an alternative. Within just 10 days of the disaster, a network of student-run canteens was established across eight hostel blocks’ ground floors. This initiative ensured that every one of the 1,200 medicos could access meals three times daily, demonstrating their collective drive and dedication.
Kevin Kotadiya, a resident doctor and coordinator of this initiative, explains the operational process: committees are responsible for deciding menus, procuring fresh flour and vegetables, and managing the finances. The cost of a meal is kept affordable at INR 65, amounting to approximately INR 3,500 monthly for a student.
A Culinary Journey Through Regions
Interestingly, the canteens are divided into zones inspired by the cultural diversity of the state and beyond. Rudra Gamit, another student and canteen coordinator, highlights that this division gives students an opportunity not only to eat but also to savor and appreciate the regional specialties of their peers.
Overcoming Challenges and Healing
Among the team is Manju Pattani, a cook who herself was injured in the crash but continues to serve meals with immense satisfaction. Her involvement adds a layer of emotional healing and solidarity, as she feeds the very medicos who tirelessly treat patients at Civil Hospital.
This canteen initiative symbolizes more than just food provision; it stands as a testament to the spirit of community, quick recovery, and mutual support within the BJ Medical College family during one of their most challenging times.
Conclusion
The BJ Medical College student-run canteens illustrate how adversity can inspire unity and innovation. By taking charge of their nourishment needs after a tragic event, the students have shown profound resilience. This ongoing effort not only nourishes the body but also strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood among the future healthcare heroes.
Such inspiring stories remind us that even in the face of hardship, determination and collective effort can pave the way to recovery and hope.
About the Author: Bharat Yagnik is an Assistant Editor at The Times of India, Ahmedabad, with nearly three decades of experience covering education, human interest stories, and rural journalism in Gujarat.
