Why Pune Is Facing a Blood Shortage Amid Rising Dengue Cases

Pune, 8th September 2026: Pune is facing a growing blood shortage, with the city collecting only 700-800 blood bags a day against an estimated daily requirement of around 1,500 bags. The situation has put additional pressure on blood banks, particularly amid rising dengue cases and increased demand for platelets.

According to available data, Pune has around 780 hospitals and 35 blood banks catering to patients across the city. However, blood collection has reportedly declined significantly over the past few months, raising concerns among healthcare professionals.

The shortage is particularly worrying amid the rise in seasonal illnesses, especially dengue. Depending on their condition, dengue patients may require platelet transfusions, increasing demand for blood components at a time when supplies are limited.

Doctors have also highlighted the continuous need for blood among patients with conditions such as thalassemia, who require regular transfusions. Lower participation in blood donation camps has further increased the pressure on blood banks.

Dr Binda Kakkar from the Department of Transfusion Medicine at Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital said the growing demand for platelets, combined with the regular blood requirements of thalassemia patients, could put further strain on blood banks if donations continue to decline.

Meanwhile, Dr Anand Chafekar, head of the blood bank at KEM Hospital, said the shortage of platelets is currently a major concern.

He said platelet stocks are particularly difficult to maintain because they have a shelf life of only around five days. Heavy rainfall has also affected the number of blood donation camps, while several camps have failed to meet their expected collection targets.

Healthcare experts have appealed to eligible citizens to come forward and donate blood to help address the shortage and ensure that patients requiring urgent transfusions receive timely treatment.

Pune’s Blood Supply Situation
Total hospitals: Around 780
Blood banks: 35
Daily requirement: Around 1,500 blood bags
Actual daily collection: Around 700-800 blood bags