TELEPHONE EXCHANGE

 

Introduction

Communication systems form the backbone of effective healthcare delivery. At PGIMER, Chandigarh, telecommunication services play a crucial role in ensuring seamless coordination among clinical, administrative, and support departments.

The Telephone Exchange system was established in the year 2002 at the Advanced Paediatric Centre (APC). The Institute currently operates:

  • Coral Tadiran EPABX System with a capacity of 2000 ports, out of which 1861 extensions are operational
  • Alcatel IP-PBX System with a capacity of 375 ports

The Telephone Exchange is physically located at:
Room No. 2326 & 2328, Ground Floor, C Block, APC Building, PGIMER

 

Location with contact person & phone numbers

Sr.No.

Contact person

Location

Phone no.

 

1

Officer In charge (Telephone)

R.No. 2012, 2nd Floor, Block-C, ACC, PGIMER

0172-2755074

 

2

J.E. (Telephone)

# 2326, G.F. C Block, APC Building, PGIMER

0172-2755958

7087008249

3

Supervisor                               ( Telephone)

------do--------

7087008960

01722755961

4

 

 

Telephone Operator  (On duty)

#2328. G.F. C Block, APC Building, PGIMER

       0172-2747585

       0172-2747620

 

 

Objectives of the Department

  • To provide uninterrupted communication services 24×7
  • To ensure efficient communication for staff, patients, attendants, and the general public
  • To facilitate seamless connectivity through EPABX and IP-PBX systems
  • To minimize faults and complaints related to landline extensions
  • To provide prompt assistance through dedicated telephone operators round the clock

Organizational Structure

 

 

MEDICAL SUPERINTENDENT

 

SUPERVISOR-1 Nos

 

TELEPHONE OPERATOR-6 Nos

 

TECHNICAL STAFF- 3 Nos

 

HOSPITAL ATTENDANT-4 Nos

 

Sr. TELEPHONE OPERATOR-6 Nos

 

OFFICER INCHARGE (TELEPHONE)

 

J.E. (TELEPHONE) -1 Nos

 

  

Major Processes / Functions

  • Outgoing Calls:
    Local outgoing calls within Punjab Circle can be made by dialing “9” before the number from any extension.
  • Direct Dialing (Tricity Area):
    Users from Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula can directly dial any PGIMER extension by prefixing 275 before the extension number.
  • Pan-India Access:
    Any user across India can connect to PGIMER extensions by dialing 0172-275 + extension number from mobile or landline.

Infrastructure

  • Infrastructure capacity supports 2375 extension lines
  • Extensive underground cabling network connects all PGIMER blocks
  • All exchange cables are terminated at a Main Distribution Frame (MDF) located adjacent to the EPABX Room (Room No. 2328, APC Building)
  • Ensures robust, reliable, and scalable communication across the campus

 

 

Equipment Installed

  • EPABX Telephone Exchange – Capacity: 2000 lines
  • IP-PBX Telephone Exchange – Capacity: 375 lines

Expenditure (Last Financial Year)

  • BSNL PRI Line Rent: ₹60,000 per month
  • Comprehensive Maintenance Contract (CMC) for EPABX: ₹2,97,000 per annum

Achievements

1. Implementation of Advanced IP-Based EPABX System

PGIMER is in the process of upgrading to a next-generation IP-based EPABX system, designed on a server and gateway-based architecture. This system supports:

  • IP, TDM, and hybrid telephony
  • Distributed communication over data networks
  • High scalability and future readiness

2. Cost-Effective Communication Infrastructure

  • Significant reduction in communication costs, especially for internal calls
  • Implementation of Closed User Group (CUG) mobile services through Bharti Airtel Ltd. under a 5-year rate contract
  • Improved mobile signal coverage across the campus

3. Expansion in New Healthcare Facilities

The advanced telecommunication system is being extended to new facilities, including:

  • Advanced Mother & Child Care Centre
  • Advanced Neurosciences Centre

This expansion ensures enhanced coordination, improved patient care, and operational efficiency.

Conclusion

The Telephone Exchange at PGIMER continues to evolve with modern technologies to provide reliable, efficient, and cost-effective communication services. The ongoing upgrades and infrastructure expansion reflect the Institute’s commitment to leveraging advanced telecommunication systems in support of excellence in healthcare delivery.