The modular hospital in Pipera, built by Bucharest City Hall, fell into ruin after thieves stole components, installations, and medical equipment

The modular hospital in Pipera, built by Bucharest City Hall in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, has been reduced to almost a ruin after thieves stole components, installations and medical equipment. The investment amounted to approximately €5 million, and the medical facility operated for only a few months.

According to TVR Info, almost all the air-conditioning units, electrical installations and several pieces of medical equipment disappeared from the complex, which consists of 250 containers. The perpetrators reportedly entered through the roof as well, while the lack of a security system and video surveillance facilitated the thefts. In the meantime, vegetation has covered part of the structures.

The hospital was set up during Gabriela Firea’s term in office by adapting temporary structures initially intended for the construction site facilities of the Metropolitan Hospital. After the unit closed, the assets remained under the responsibility of Compania Municipală Consolidări SA, which is bankrupt.

Bucharest City Hall says it has been in litigation with the company since 2021 and that the obligation to preserve and protect the assets lies with the court-appointed insolvency administrator designated in 2023. However, a public administration professor points out that the administration also has a responsibility to protect public assets. The City Hall has initiated an official procedure to document the vandalism, with the participation of a bailiff.