Belagavi: Due to the strike by private medical practitioners in the state, a large number of patients are heading towards Maharashtra for treatment. Hospitals in places like Kolhapur Miraj and Sangli are crowded with patients from Karnataka Meanwhile, Basappa Balappa Murabatte, 63, of Palabhavi village in Raibag taluk died on Wednesday due to lack of timely treatment. Basappa was hit by a mild heart attack on Wednesday, but his family could not find any private hospital. BIMS overburdenedDue to the protest, the Belagavi Institute of Medical Sciences (BIMS) witnessed almost 35% increase in out-patients on Thursday. Speaking to the TOI, district surgeon Dr Hussainsab Khaji said the hospital has capacity of 750 beds, but admission is given to more than 850 patients. "We are using available space and equipment extensively to provide treatment to the patients," Dr Khaji said, adding that the leaves of all doctors have been cancelled.The admission of pregnant women has increased considerably in past three days. The number of deliveries have doubled due to the strike. Usually, 15-20 deliveries are recorded in the hospital.KLES OPD closed KLES Dr Prabhakar Kore Hospital , the only private hospital providing treatment in Belagavi, has recorded a three-fold increase in patients. Its OPD had to be closed on Thursday afternoon due to the huge flow of patients. Hospital sources said they cannot deny treatment for emergency cases.Jai Karnataka Sanghatane staged a protest at Belagavi DC's office, urging the doctors to withdraw their agitation. The organization blamed private doctors for the deaths in the region.

Stay updated with all the Latest Hubli headlines here. For more exclusive & live news updates from all around India, stay connected with NYOOOZ.