The Kamalganj Upazila Health Complex in Moulvibazar, meant to serve nearly 400,000 people, is struggling under severe doctor shortages, poor waste management and crumbling infrastructure, according to a report in the Daily Star.
Of the hospital’s 136 sanctioned posts, just 86 are filled, leaving vacancies for consultants in medicine, surgery and anaesthesia, as well as nurses and technicians. Expensive equipment, including a digital X-ray machine, ultrasonography unit and ECG machine, sits idle for lack of operators.
Conditions on the grounds are equally dire. Garbage piles up with no designated disposal site, while stagnant water surrounds the complex, creating health risks and an unbearable stench. Patients say even basic medicines are available for only part of the year.
Officials admit the problems. The upazila health officer said steps are under way, while the district civil surgeon said letters have been sent to the health ministry seeking recruitment.
For a facility meant to provide basic care to one of Bangladesh’s most densely populated rural areas, the neglect is nothing short of a shame.