Construction work at the new A2 building of Stradiņš Hospital in Latvia has come to a standstill as funding is urgently needed to dismantle drywall infested with mold and address the health hazards it presents. A conflict has arisen between the hospital management and the construction company 'Velve' regarding unresolved mold issues discovered in 2021, complicating the resolution of this pressing problem. Despite the hospital's outward appearance suggesting significant progress, only about half of the work has been completed, with critical elements like the emergency medical center and operating rooms remaining entirely unbuilt.

Hospital board member Ģirts Ansons and construction section head Anastasija Popova provided insights during a site visit, revealing that although the facade looks nearly finished, essential construction tasks are far from completion. Currently, substantial infrastructure, such as a large ventilation system and metal profiles, are in place, but the core operational areas critical for patient care have yet to be developed. The ongoing dispute over mold has hampered progression, with the construction company claiming a mutually agreed upon mold prevention plan was executed prior to any unilateral termination of the contract.

The financial implications of this construction delay not only affect the timelines of completing the new facilities but also pose potential risks to patient health if the mold issue is not resolved swiftly. The hospital's management must find solutions within a limited budget to address these challenges and move forward with the critical construction that is necessary for future medical services, all while navigating the complexities of their contractual obligations with the construction company and ensuring the safety of patients and staff.