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Hygiene in Dhaka Medical College Hospital remains a major concern
In Bangladesh, hospitals are places where patients think twice before visiting, due to numerous issues such as hygiene, food quality, overcrowding and ventilation.
Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) ranks top among the facilities blamed for these issues.
“I never think of visiting public hospitals in Bangladesh, let alone Dhaka Medical College Hospital,” said Tahsin Farzana, a homemaker from a middle-class family.
According to Tahsin, hospitals should provide relief, but in Bangladesh, particularly at public facilities, the conditions are distressing. "The washrooms and toilets in these hospitals are the dirtiest places," she remarked, adding that even attendants feel unwell after a short stay caring for a patient.
Tahsin expressed frustration with the status quo, saying, “This situation cannot be allowed to go on. A hospital should be a place where a patient can heave a sigh of relief, but to expect that in Bangladesh is simply a dream.”
Severe Hygiene Challenges
Cleanliness within hospitals is critical, covering not only wards and operating theatres but also public areas like waiting rooms, toilets and cafeterias.
Experts warn that inadequate hygiene in hospitals contributes to the spread of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), including drug-resistant bacteria such as MRSA.
Routine cleaning using hypochlorite disinfectants has been proven to reduce infections like C. difficile, particularly when combined with standard disinfectants.
However, data reveals that cleanliness in Bangladeshi hospitals is alarmingly deficient. Only 38% of health facilities nationwide have basic hygiene services, with a stark difference between government (32%) and private (69%) facilities, as reported by WHO and Unicef in their latest JMP report.
A recent study by icddr,b found that only 33% of toilets in government hospitals are clean, with most lacking disposal options for menstrual hygiene products and facilities for disabled patients.
The study, conducted across 2,459 toilets in Dhaka's healthcare facilities, highlights an inadequate user-to-toilet ratio, far exceeding the national standard of 1:6, with government hospitals reaching a ratio of 214:1.
DMCH’s Fight with Mismanagement
Dhaka Medical College Hospital, one of the country's most significant public healthcare providers, faces immense strain.
Patient numbers at DMCH have almost doubled the hospital's intended capacity, severely impacting the quality of care. From wards to corridors, patients lie on floors as the hospital grapples with overcrowding, inadequate beds and a lack of resources.
Read: Emergency services resume at DMCH, outdoor still closed
Hospital director Brigadier General Asaduzzaman Khan acknowledged the numerous complaints, attributing the worsening conditions to both overcrowding and insufficient facilities.
"One toilet serves ten patients. If you accommodate 4,300 patients in a facility designed for 2,600, along with two or three attendants per patient, the pressure on facilities is unmanageable," he explained.
Khan also raised concerns about users’ behaviour, stating, "We strive to ensure cleanliness, but many patients and attendants are unaware of proper hygiene practices, often leaving waste like sanitary pads and plastic bags in toilets, exacerbating the problem."
He also mentioned that staff shortages, especially among the fourth-grade workforce, hinder the hospital's efforts to maintain cleanliness and order.
A study on sanitation in Dhaka's major hospitals was conducted by researchers from the University of Technology Sydney, icddr,b in Bangladesh, and Dhaka Medical College.
It highlights severe issues with toilet functionality, cleanliness, and accessibility, especially for outpatient services, with recommendations for improved resources and management to meet sanitation standards by 2030. The cross-sectional study, conducted between August and December 2022, evaluated toilets in 10 government and two private hospitals to assess their functionality, cleanliness, and user-to-toilet ratio.
The findings revealed that only 68% of government hospital toilets and 92% of private hospital toilets were functional. Cleanliness was even more concerning, with only 33% of toilets in government hospitals and 56% in private hospitals considered clean.
The study also uncovered high user-to-toilet ratios, particularly in outpatient services, where ratios were as high as 214:1 in government hospitals and 94:1 in private facilities.
Alarmingly, only 3% of toilets had bins for menstrual-pad disposal, and less than 1% were equipped for disabled users.
Read more: Five including 2 DMCH staffers caught by students over irregularities
The researchers emphasise that improving sanitation facilities in Dhaka's healthcare facilities is critical to meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, calling for increased resources, maintenance staff, and leadership from hospital administrators to address these shortcomings.
This study underscores the urgent need for policy interventions to improve basic sanitation and infection control in healthcare settings in Dhaka.
A Call for Urgent Reforms
The situation at Dhaka Medical College Hospital reflects a broader crisis within the country’s healthcare system. The poor hygiene standards, staff shortages, budget constraints, and inadequate facilities at DMCH paint a grim picture of the healthcare services available to the public.
Addressing these issues will require significant resource allocation, dedicated maintenance staff, and, crucially, strong leadership to enforce standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and patient care. With rising patient numbers and deteriorating conditions, the need for reform has never been more pressing.
219 minutes ago
Short supply of medicines, syndicates rock Dhaka Medical College Hospital
Dhaka Medical College Hospital, a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s public healthcare system, now struggles with ‘widespread’ irregularities, including a severe shortage of medicines, leaving poor and middle-class patients without the proper care they desperately need.
The hospital, consistently exceeding its bed capacity, is grappling with overcrowded wards and an overwhelming patient load, severely compromising its ability to provide proper medical care.
Reports from various departments highlight a grim picture: unclean environments, low-quality food, inadequate staffing, and patients often forced to lie on the floors of overcrowded corridors and wards.
Hospital Director Brigadier General Asaduzzaman Khan acknowledged the increasing number of patient complaints, admitting the gravity of the situation. “We are aware of these issues and steps are being taken to address them,” he said.
However, the situation seems to have worsened, with one of the most concerning issues being the chronic shortage of medicines.
A patient, who chose to remain anonymous, spoke about the difficulties of getting essential drugs from the hospital’s pharmacy.
“Most of the necessary medicines are unavailable here. We often have no choice but to purchase them at higher prices from pharmacies outside,” the patient said.
The stark contrast between the hospital’s shortages and the full stock of nearby pharmacies has raised suspicions about the management of medicine supplies within the facility.
In one instance, a woman from a rural village was seen heading to a nearby pharmacy, escorted by a man. When asked about their destination, the woman confirmed that she was going to buy medicine.
However, when questioned about the man’s identity or whether he was receiving a commission for directing patients to the pharmacy, he quickly avoided answering.
Brigadier General Asaduzzaman Khan, when confronted about the shortages, explained that the problem lay in the supply chain. “What can we do if the government does not supply the required medicines? There are many items we need that are simply not being supplied,” he said.
In addition to the medicine shortages, some patients have reported receiving only one type of medication over a span of several days due to the lack of necessary supplies. Families have frequently had to buy medications from outside sources, adding an extra financial burden on already struggling patients.
One hospital staff member pointed to budgetary constraints as the primary reason behind the shortages. “We don’t have a government supply. We can’t always provide every medicine due to budget shortfalls. To offer complete services, we need to double our budget,” the staff member explained, though they declined to provide further details on the specifics of the hospital’s current budget allocation.
Allegations of Syndicate and Bribery Practices
Further complicating matters are widespread allegations of bribery and corrupt practices within the hospital.
Several patients have claimed that hospital staff and ward aides are demanding bribes ranging from 50 to 100 taka for basic services such as providing wheelchairs and facilitating medical tests. These practices have added to the already heavy financial burden placed on families who are seeking essential medical care.
One unregistered worker, seen assisting a patient, admitted to accepting tips for his services. "We don't force anyone to give us money, but if they do, it helps with our expenses," he said.
Brigadier General Asaduzzaman Khan has acknowledged the existence of such practices, stating that the hospital is actively working to address these issues. "Both sides share the blame. We have dismissed several people based on these complaints and are working to dismantle such practices, though complete eradication has yet to be achieved.”
Read: Mismanagement and overcrowding plague Dhaka Medical College Hospital
Earlier this year, in February, the High Court weighed in on the pervasive influence of syndicates in the healthcare sector.
The court described the syndicates as playing "games of ducks and drakes" with people’s lives, accusing them of supplying expired drugs and medical equipment for profit.
The court urged all concerned parties to remain vigilant and take action to protect vulnerable patients from such exploitative practices.
Struggling Medical Supply Chain
Medicine supply has long been a challenge in Bangladesh's public healthcare system.
A 2020 survey revealed that 72% of public hospitals face regular shortages of medicines, exacerbating the difficulties for patients who rely on these facilities for care.
A number of factors contribute to these shortages, including inadequate budget allocation, limited healthcare insurance, and an overwhelming number of outpatients.
The public healthcare sector has historically received less than 1% of the country’s GDP over the past 12 years, which is insufficient to meet the demands of the growing population. Without health insurance, many patients are required to pay for outpatient services, further compounding the strain on public hospitals.
Despite these challenges, some efforts have been made to improve the situation.
The World Bank provided critical assistance, including supplying vaccines, syringes, and medical equipment to help Bangladesh manage the COVID-19 crisis.
Besides, the government heavily subsidises public healthcare, though these subsidies are often insufficient to meet the growing demands of the system.
A study conducted in 2013 at Dhaka Medical College Hospital highlighted further issues in the hospital's medical supply chain.
The study, which surveyed hospital shop employees, revealed that over half of the drugs were purchased through open tender, while a significant portion came through direct purchases and donations.
Read more: Government renames 14 hospitals and medical colleges
However, the hospital's pharmacy suffers from a lack of proper storage facilities, with no air-conditioning or refrigeration available in the store.
The management has called for improvements in quality control, storage facilities and training to improve the system.
Looking Ahead
The situation at Dhaka Medical College Hospital paints a worrying picture of the state of public healthcare in Bangladesh.
From the lack of basic medicines to the widespread practice of bribery and corruption, the hospital's problems are a microcosm of the systemic issues that plague the broader healthcare system.
While efforts to improve the situation are ongoing, patients and healthcare workers alike are calling for more substantial reforms, increased funding, and greater transparency to ensure that Bangladesh’s public healthcare system can truly meet the needs of its people.
20 hours ago
Mismanagement and overcrowding plague Dhaka Medical College Hospital
Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), one of Bangladesh’s largest public healthcare facilities, is facing a severe crisis as mismanagement and overcrowding jeopardise patient care.
With patient numbers nearly double the intended capacity, the hospital is struggling to provide adequate services, exposing critical issues that burden patients and their families.
Upon entry, visitors are met with unsanitary conditions, insufficient food provisions, and inadequate staffing.
Many patients are seen lying on the floors of overcrowded corridors and wards, underscoring the scale of the crisis.
Brigadier General Asaduzzaman Khan, the hospital’s director, has acknowledged the growing complaints and pledged to address these ongoing issues.
Patients Endure Delays and Lack of Medical Supplies
Alal Uddin, who suffered a head injury in an accident in Mymensingh, had been waiting in the corridor since 4 October, unable to secure a bed.
His brother, Jalal Uddin, voiced frustration, saying, "Nurses are unavailable when needed, and doctors are also hard to reach."
Another patient, 24-year-old Jahid Hasan, admitted on October 2, had faced similar challenges. His father, a CNG driver from Khilgaon, revealed, "A prescribed injection has not been administered as it’s reportedly out of stock, despite being listed in the hospital pharmacy."
Many families are forced to purchase medicines externally due to shortages at the hospital.
Lack of Hygiene Raises Health Concerns
Hospital staff struggle to maintain hygiene standards amidst overcrowding.
The director cited users’ behaviour as a factor, explaining, "Toilets are often misused, with discarded items blocking the facilities. With each toilet shared by around ten people, maintaining proper sanitation becomes difficult."
A visit to the hospital kitchen revealed further issues, including waste accumulation near cooking areas and rice left uncovered, raising health concerns for patients.
Understaffing and Financial Constraints
A shortage of class four staff exacerbates the situation, according to the director. "Without increasing personnel, mismanagement will continue."
Besides, the daily food budget of Tk 150 per patient is inadequate, he added, advocating for an increase to Tk 200 for improved meal quality.
Corruption Allegations Add Financial Strain
Some patients and families report being asked to pay tips of Tk 50-100 to hospital aides for basic services such as wheelchair assistance.
A ward aide, speaking on condition of anonymity, explained, "If patients offer us something, it helps us manage our own expenses."
The director acknowledged the issue, noting, "We have dismissed individuals involved in such practices, though eradicating it entirely remains a challenge."
Improving Bangladesh’s Healthcare System
Experts call for reforms to improve Bangladesh’s healthcare, including stricter regulations for private clinics, decentralised recruitment for healthcare professionals, and a more equitable doctor-patient ratio. Other challenges include unregulated pharmacies, reactive health-seeking behaviour, and high out-of-pocket costs for patients.
A Legacy Under Strain
Founded in 1946, Dhaka Medical College has evolved over decades, with expansions that include a new complex opened in 2013. However, demand consistently outstrips capacity.
With 39 public and 68 private medical colleges nationwide, the country still struggles to meet the healthcare needs of its population.
At the heart of hospital management is the commitment to quality patient care, according to experts. They said that this involves not just medical treatment, but also ensuring patient safety, privacy, and satisfaction.
Hospitals must continuously monitor and improve their care processes to meet the highest standards.
1 day ago
DSE extends recovery amid growing confidence of investors
The Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) continued its upward trend, with the benchmark index rising significantly over the past week.“This positive market sentiment was fuelled by several factors, including discussions on early share settlements, liquidity support through the Investment Corporation of Bangladesh (ICB), and potential capital gains tax cuts,” said the market analysts.Investors were seen actively shifting their positions, either securing profits from previous investments or reallocating funds to stocks with promising earnings reports. This selective approach, driven by optimism, contributed to the overall market momentum.The DSE's broad index, DSEX, gained a substantial 116.9 points, or 2.2 percent, closing at 5,316 points. Market turnover increased by 45.4 percent to TK 605.8 crore compared to the previous week.The DSEX added 202 points in the past two consecutive weeks after losing 616 points in the previous five weeks.The DSE's sectoral indices also performed well. The DS30 Index, comprising 30 leading companies, gained 39 points to close at 1,965 points. Similarly, the DSES Index, representing Shariah-compliant companies, rose 43 points to 1,188 points.The market capitalization increased by Tk 6500 crore, reaching Tk 6,71800 crore at the end of the week.Market turnover, a key indicator of market activity, surged to Tk 3029 crore this week, significantly higher than the previous week's turnover of Tk 2083 crore. This resulted in an average daily turnover of Tk 606 crore, a 45 percent increase compared to the previous week's average of Tk 416 crore.Sectoral Performance:Top Performers: Paper & Printing sector led the gainers with a 10.4 percent increase.Moderate Correction: The Food sector experienced a slight 0.7 percent correction.Investor Interest: Pharma, Bank, and Textile sectors remained popular among investors, attracting 19.5 percent, 15.6 percent, and 8.9 percent of the total turnover, respectively.Overall, the market's positive trajectory reflects growing investor confidence and anticipation of favorable regulatory policies.M Mashrur Reaz, chairman of the think tank Policy Exchange Bangladesh (PEB), said the capital market is getting stability as the confidence grows among the investors for recent regulatory measures.He also focused on a plan to develop a national strategy for sustainable long-term financing source of the capital.Saiful Islam, President of the DSE Brokers Association of Bangladesh (DBA), the decision of tax cut by the National Board of Revenue (NBR) was a timely intervention in the market.He expressed optimism about the recent reduction in the capital gains tax rate and believes this move will significantly contribute to the market's recovery and increased liquidity.“It is expected to help the market overcome the prolonged bearish trend and encourage greater investor participation," he added.
1 day ago
Submission of tax return to be connected to more services' provision
The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has taken a move to put more emphasis on ensuring submission of PSR (proof of submission of income tax return) in related fields aiming to expand tax net as well as enhance revenue collection.
NBR chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan has recently held a meeting in this regard where he asked the officials to be more active in this matter.
The proof of submission of income tax return (PSR) is now mandatory for 43 Services to execute the decision of the NBR and collect the government treasury.
According to the meeting the NBR chairman asked the field level officials to ensure the submission of PSR in related services.
Recently, Md Abdur Rahman Khan while briefing reporters said that if the field administration could be utilised properly, it would be beneficial for the revenue board to expand its tax net and tax collection.
NBR nominates six officials for C&F Agent attachment process
In this connection, he said that for any construction of a building under Rajuk, CDA, KDA, RDA and others, submission of PSR is mandatory.
“We could send inspectors there to see whether the related authorities are following the rules properly or not,” he said.
The NBR chief mentioned that if the related authorities are not following the rules, the NBR will create awareness among them.
“After that we will send our team there to convince them, and at last we will implement the related laws which would be monetary fine to make it mandatory,” he said.
He hoped that if the submission of PSR is maintained in every enlisted services followed properly, it would be beneficial to increase the TIN holders and income tax return submission numbers.
He also said that there is an allegation that the tax net of the country is too small with a small amount of tax collection.
“If we can ensure the submission of the PSR it would also help us to put pressure on regular taxpayers also,” he said.
The NBR chairman said that with the increased tax net it would be helpful for his organisation to provide relief for the other regular taxpayers.
Currently the tax-to-GDP ratio is just 7.3 percent in the country, whereas it stands at 12 percent in India, 17.5 percent in Nepal, 12.3 percent in Bhutan, and 7.5 percent in Pakistan.
Only 5.2 percent of the population registered as taxpayers, compared to 23.08 percent in India.
At present the number of e-TIN registered taxpayers has surpassed 1 crore. Until April of last fiscal year, NBR received 41 lakhs tax returns from taxpayers, mainly individuals, which was 27 percent higher than that of the same period in fiscal year 2023-24.
At present income tax contributes about 33 percent of the total revenue collected by the National Board of Revenue. The average growth in income tax collection is more than 16 percent.
The services which require PSR are:
1. Applying for a loan exceeding Tk. 20 lakh from a bank or a financial institution.
2. Becoming a director or a sponsor shareholder of a company.
3. Obtaining or continuing an import registration certificate or export registration certificate
4. Obtaining or renewal of a trade license in the area of a city corporation or paurashava.
5. Obtaining registration of any cooperative society
6. Obtaining or renewing of license or enlistment as a surveyor of general insurance.
7. Obtaining registration, by a resident, of the deed of transfer, baynanama or power of attorney or selling of land, building or an apartment situated within a city corporation or a paurashava of a district headquarter or cantonment board, where the deed value exceeds Tk. 10 lakh
8. Obtaining or maintaining a credit card
9. Obtaining or continuing the membership of the professional body as a doctor, dentist, lawyer, chartered accountant, cost and management accountant, engineer, architect or surveyor or any other similar profession
10. Obtaining and retaining a license as a Nikah Registrar under the Muslim Marriages and Divorces (Registration) Act. 1974 (LII of 1974)
11. Obtaining or continuing the membership of any trade or professional body
12. Obtaining or renewal of a drug license, a fire license, an environment clearance certificate, a BSTI license, and a clearance
13. Obtaining or continuing commercial and industrial connection of gas in any area and obtaining or continuing residential connection of gas in the city corporation area.
14. Obtaining or continuing a survey certificate of any water vessel including launch, steamer, fishing trawler, cargo, coaster, dumb barge etc., plying for hire
15. Obtaining the permission or the renewal of permission for the manufacture of bricks by the Deputy Commissioner’s office in a district or Directorate of Environment, as the case may be
16. Obtaining the admission of a child or a dependent in an English medium school providing education under an international curriculum or English version of the national curriculum, situated in any city corporation, district headquarter or paurashava
17. Obtaining or continuing the connection of electricity in a city corporation or cantonment board.
18. Obtaining or continuing the agency or the distributorship of a company.
19. Obtaining or continuing a license for arms.
20. pening a letter of credit (LC) for the purpose of import.
21. Opening postal savings accounts of Tk. exceeding 5 lakhs.
22. Opening and continuing bank accounts of any sort with a credit balance exceeding Tk. 10 lakhs.
23. Purchasing savings instruments (Sanchayapatra) of Tk. exceeding 5 lakhs.
24. Participating in any election in upazila, paurashava, zilla parishad, city corporation or Jatiya Sangsad
25. Participating in a shared economic activity by providing motor vehicle, space, accommodation, or any other assets.
26. Receiving any payment which is an income of the payee classifiable under the head "Salaries" by any person employed in the management or administrative function or in any supervisory position in the production function.
27. Receiving salaries and allowances of public servants
28. Receiving any commission, fee, or another sum in relation to money transfer through mobile banking or other electronic means or in relation to the recharge of a mobile phone account.
29. Receiving any payment by a resident from a company on account of any advisory or consultancy service, catering service, event management service, supply of manpower or providing security service
30. Receiving any amount from the Government under the MPO if the amount of payment exceeds tk. 16,000 per month.
31. Registration or renewal of agency certificate of an insurance company.
32. Registration, change of ownership or renewal of fitness of a motor vehicle of any type excluding two and three-wheeler.
33. Releasing overseas grants to a non-government organization registered with NGO Affairs Bureau or to a Micro Credit Organization having a license with Micro Credit Regulatory Authority.
34. Selling of any goods or services by any digital platform to consumers in Bangladesh.
35. Applying for the membership of a club registered under the Companies Act 1994 and Societies Registration Act, 1860.
36. Submitting tender documents by a resident for the purpose of supply of goods, execution of a contract or rendering a service.
37. Receiving any kind of product or service from any company or firm.
38. Submitting a bill of entry for import into or export from Bangladesh.
39. Submitting plan for the construction of a building for the purpose of obtaining approval from Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (Rajuk), Chittagong Development Authority (CDA), Khulna Development Authority (KDA) and Rajshahi Development Authority (RDA) or other concerned authority in any city corporation or paurashava.
40. Registration of document writers, stamps, and court fee vendors.
41. Opening bank accounts of cooperatives, trusts, NGOs etc.
42. Renting and leasing houses in city corporation areas.
43. Products supply and providing services for certain entities.
1 day ago
Mismanagement and overcrowding plague Dhaka Medical College Hospital
Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), one of Bangladesh’s largest public healthcare facilities, is facing a severe crisis as mismanagement and overcrowding jeopardise patient care.
With patient numbers nearly double the intended capacity, the hospital is struggling to provide adequate services, exposing critical issues that burden patients and their families.
Upon entry, visitors are met with unsanitary conditions, insufficient food provisions, and inadequate staffing.
Many patients are seen lying on the floors of overcrowded corridors and wards, underscoring the scale of the crisis.
Outpatient services resume in full swing at DMCH, Suhrawardy Hospital
Brigadier General Asaduzzaman Khan, the hospital’s director, has acknowledged the growing complaints and pledged to address these ongoing issues.
Patients Endure Delays and Lack of Medical Supplies
Alal Uddin, who suffered a head injury in an accident in Mymensingh, had been waiting in the corridor since 4 October, unable to secure a bed.
His brother, Jalal Uddin, voiced frustration, saying, "Nurses are unavailable when needed, and doctors are also hard to reach."
Another patient, 24-year-old Jahid Hasan, admitted on October 2, had faced similar challenges. His father, a CNG driver from Khilgaon, revealed, "A prescribed injection has not been administered as it’s reportedly out of stock, despite being listed in the hospital pharmacy."
Many families are forced to purchase medicines externally due to shortages at the hospital.
Lack of Hygiene Raises Health Concerns
Hospital staff struggle to maintain hygiene standards amidst overcrowding.
The director cited users’ behaviour as a factor, explaining, "Toilets are often misused, with discarded items blocking the facilities. With each toilet shared by around ten people, maintaining proper sanitation becomes difficult."
A visit to the hospital kitchen revealed further issues, including waste accumulation near cooking areas and rice left uncovered, raising health concerns for patients.
Understaffing and Financial Constraints
A shortage of class four staff exacerbates the situation, according to the director. "Without increasing personnel, mismanagement will continue."
Besides, the daily food budget of Tk 150 per patient is inadequate, he added, advocating for an increase to Tk 200 for improved meal quality.
Corruption Allegations Add Financial Strain
Some patients and families report being asked to pay tips of Tk 50-100 to hospital aides for basic services such as wheelchair assistance.
A ward aide, speaking on condition of anonymity, explained, "If patients offer us something, it helps us manage our own expenses."
The director acknowledged the issue, noting, "We have dismissed individuals involved in such practices, though eradicating it entirely remains a challenge."
Improving Bangladesh’s Healthcare System
Experts call for reforms to improve Bangladesh’s healthcare, including stricter regulations for private clinics, decentralised recruitment for healthcare professionals, and a more equitable doctor-patient ratio. Other challenges include unregulated pharmacies, reactive health-seeking behaviour, and high out-of-pocket costs for patients.
A Legacy Under Strain
Founded in 1946, Dhaka Medical College has evolved over decades, with expansions that include a new complex opened in 2013. However, demand consistently outstrips capacity.
1 day ago
Petrobangla to make a fresh short list of LNG suppliers of int'l spot market soon
Petrobangla is going to make a fresh list of international spot market LNG supply companies through an open tender by next week.
"The tender is ready for circulation in the media and hopefully the notice will be published in the first half of the next week", Petrobangla Chairman Zanendra Nath Sarker told UNB.
He noted that this time an open tender will be floated to make a fresh list of the LNG suppliers through a transparent process.
Bangladesh has been importing liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the international spot market since 2019 to meet its growing gas demands.
To ensure a smooth supply, as per instruction of the Energy and Mineral Resources Division, the Petrobangla and its LNG handling subsidiary Rupantarita Prakritik Gas Company Limited (RPGCL) invited expressions of interest from the international companies to enlist them with the authorities concerned.
Initially, 17 companies were listed on the basis of the Speedy Increase of Power and Energy Supply Act 2010 and then 5 more companies were added to the list.
From these companies, Petrobangla has been importing the LNG from the international spot market. But every time, it was seen that again and again a number of certain companies are getting contracts and dominating the business.
These companies include Vitol Asia of Singapore, TotalEnergies of Switzerland, Excelerate Energy of USA, and Gunvor Singapore.
Read: Govt approves bulk imports of rice, wheat, sugar, LNG, fertiliser
Of these, there are allegations; some of the companies had business interests with former ministers and state ministers of the fallen Awami League government and also some local business groups.
After the fall of the Awami League government, when the interim government assumed office, it decided to suspend the Speedy Increase of Power and Energy Supply Act 2010 and instead import the LNG from the spot market under the Public Procurement Rule 2008.
It also decided to scrap the list of the companies soon to bring transparency in the bulk import of LNG as the government has to spend more than a billion dollars to import the LNG.
As part of the decision, finally the Petrobangla moves to prepare a fresh list of the interested companies through an open and transparent process.
"We have decided once the new list of the companies is prepared, we will cancel the previous list of the 23 companies", said the Petrobangla.
Energy industry insiders said that the new move will encourage more reputed international companies to supply LNG to Bangladesh from the international spot market.
"This will also facilitate to get LNG at a much lower rate which will ultimately reduce the energy cost of the government", said an energy expert wishing anonymity.
Bangladesh has been experiencing huge gas crisis as it produces 3100 MMCFD Gas per day against a demand of about 4000 MMCFD.
Read more: Govt approves LNG and fertilizer import proposals
Of the total production of 3100 MMCFD, some 1100 MMCFD gas is being imported from abroad of which 150-200 MMCFD gas is imported from the spot market while remaining is imported from Qatar and Oman under long term contract.
2 days ago
Major reforms underway to improve train ticketing system, combat scalping: Adviser Fouzul
The government is undertaking a series of initiatives aimed at making train ticket purchase easier, more transparent, and passenger-friendly.
According to Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, adviser to the Ministry of Railways, Bangladesh Railway and the Ministry of Railways are working together to revamp the system, introducing changes that will also include alterations to the country's railway routes and improvements to the online ticketing process.
In a special interview with UNB, Adviser Fouzul outlined various steps being taken to ensure transparency and accountability in the railway's e-ticketing system.
“We are working to simplify the ticket purchasing process and ensure passengers’ satisfaction. We aim to make ticket purchase more accessible so that people can easily buy their tickets. We expect to see benefits from these changes soon,” he said.
He emphasized that passenger satisfaction with the ticket purchasing process is crucial. He pointed out that many passengers face disappointment when they cannot secure tickets to their desired destinations online. To address this issue, officials at Bangladesh Railway have been instructed to ensure that remaining tickets for nearby stations and available times are automatically displayed in search options. Furthermore, if necessary, external experts will be consulted to refine the process.
In a bold move to ensure fairness, the adviser confirmed that manual reservation of tickets for government officials would be stopped. “Many ticket requests come from the railway secretary or other officials, and some tickets were often pre-booked. This practice will no longer continue. No tickets will be reserved on the request of any secretary or official. The rights of the general public must be ensured first,” the adviser added.
Efforts to meet increasing demand for passenger and freight transport are also underway, with the acquisition of additional locomotives and carriages being pursued to support the introduction of extra train services. Bangladesh Railway, in collaboration with the Ministry of Railways, is focused on quickly procuring the necessary resources.
Addressing the issue of route rationalization, the railway adviser explained that trains currently travel on some routes with low passenger demand, while other high-demand routes remain underserved. “There are places where trains are operating without passengers, and in other places where there is a demand, there are no trains,” he said. He pointed out that routes frequently used by Bangladeshis working abroad, such as Dhaka-Sylhet and Dhaka-Chattogram, would be given special attention, and arrangements would be made accordingly.
Read: Benapole, Sundarbans Express trains’ routes to remain unchanged
In addition to enhancing train services, the government is tackling the issue of ticket scalping. A committee, led by the Ministry’s Additional Secretary (Administration), has been formed to address this problem, alongside efforts to rationalize routes. “We are involving young people to help prevent ticket scalping. Strict actions will be taken against those involved in scalping, including railway staff. Additionally, we have plans in place to make it easier for the public to obtain tickets,” said the adviser.
Adviser Fouzul was firm on the stance against corruption in ticket sales, sahing that if any scalping or lack of transparency was detected, those responsible would not be spared. “We are serious about eliminating scalping and any unfair practices in the system,” he added.
On the issue of online ticketing, he revealed that Shohoz.com, the company responsible for ticket sales, has been directed to address various ongoing issues. Despite the widespread problem of online tickets being unavailable while tickets are found at inflated prices on the black market, he assured that steps were being taken to address the root cause. “The government may be criticized for not acting, but resolving these issues will take time. Over the past two and a half months, we have been working to get to the bottom of these problems,” he said.
Further improvements in the online system are in progress, with instructions issued to ensure that customers can access alternative options via the Shohoz app. A high-level committee has been formed to oversee these changes and ensure their successful implementation.
Read more: Benapole, Sundarbans Express trains’ routes to remain unchanged
In response to concerns about trains departing late, Adviser Fouzul affirmed that the government is taking punctuality very seriously. “Passengers often face difficulties if they miss their trains due to delays. We have given clear instructions to the relevant authorities, though sometimes incidents such as line clearance issues or accidents may cause delays,” he said. He added that railway officials had been urged to act more responsibly in addressing these challenges to ensure smoother operations.
2 days ago
Govt plans big to boost national revenue in the next two fiscals: document
In its bid to boost the national revenue the interim government has set a target to collect Tk 6,15,500 crore and Tk 6,95,100 crore respectively for the next two fiscals.
In the next 2025-26 fiscal an amount of Tk 5,53, 300 crore will come from NBR which is 15.2 percent higher than the previous year.
Officials familiar with the plan said this week another Tk 62500 crore will come from other sources which is 5.5 percent higher than the previous year.
In the 2026-27 fiscal, Tk 6,31,100 crore, which is 14.1 percent higher, will be collected from NBR while Tk 64000 crore, which is 5.3 percent higher, will come from other sources.
The revenue target for the running 2024-25 fiscal is Tk 5,41,000 crore. Of which, Tk. 4,80,000 crore is supposed to come through the National Board of Revenue, and Tk. 61,000 crore from other sources.
The government has undertaken various reform measures to achieve its fiscal targets in the medium term (2026-27 fiscal), according to an official document of the finance ministry.
The revenue is expected to grow around 13 percent in the next three years, including the running one, to reach Tk 695,000 crore in FY27.
The NBR tax is estimated to grow by as high as 28.2 percent in FY24, which is then projected to grow by 17.1 percent in FY25, 15.2 percent in FY26, and finally 14.1 percent in FY27.
As per the document, there is no other option but to boost revenue collection and raise the tax-to-GDP ratio to the acceptable level in order to maintain Bangladesh's economic development.
The government is planning to bring in appropriate changes and reforms in tax policy and administration to make them both effective and simple in the medium term.
Several initiatives are underway to make tax administration taxpayer-friendly and transparent by expanding the scope of digitalisation and automation in tax registration, return submission, and tax payment.
Tax exemptions currently being provided in various areas will be scrutinised and rationalised.
Laws pertaining to customs and income tax have been updated and more amendments are in the offing in those laws to make those more taxpayers and business friendly.
A Medium and Long Term Revenue Strategy (MLTRS) is currently being developed by the National Board of Revenue that is expected to chart a pathway to enhance revenue collection over the next five years.
Along with the initiatives for reforms in the taxation system, the government has also paid its attention to explore the potential of revenue mobilisation from NTR sources. Various initiatives are being taken to make autonomous institutions pay part of their profit to the government.
Ministries/Departments are being sensitised and encouraged to update fees/rates in non-tax revenue sector, identify potential sources and generate revenue from these sources, the document said.
A database has already been created regarding fees/rates of government services provided by government agencies.
In addition to updating the fees/charges of various services provided by the government, it has introduced a digital payment system so that the public can avail themselves of numerous services from their doorsteps which will improve NTR collection in the medium term, the document says.
On ther other hand, to encourage hassle-free tax return submission the NBR has issued an order to make online filing of income tax return (e-Return) mandatory for government employees under the jurisdiction of income tax circles located in Dhaka North, Dhaka South, Gazipur and Narayanganj City Corporation.
Online filing of income tax returns has been made mandatory for working officers/employees for all scheduled banks, all mobile telecom service providers and some multinational companies namely Unilever Bangladesh Limited, British American Tobacco Bangladesh Company Limited, Marico Bangladesh Limited, Berger Paints Bangladesh Limited, Bata Shoe Company (Bangladesh) Limited, Nestlé Bangladesh Plc.
The NBR has taken a move to simplify submission income tax return and payment procedure through online.
Online return filing system has been opened for taxpayers since September 9. Individual taxpayers can easily prepare their returns and file them online using the National Board of Revenue website www.etaxnbr.gov.bd.
From this system, taxpayers can pay taxes through internet banking, card payment (debit/credit card) and mobile banking and get the facility of downloading and printing copies of filed returns, receipts, income tax certificates, TIN certificates. Besides, anyone can download and print the e-Return filed for the previous year.
The e-Return registration process has already been made more taxpayer friendly. Biometric SIM registered with own national identity card of respected taxpayer is required for successful registration in e-Return.
3 days ago
Film industry eagerly awaits getting back to normalcy
During the last couple of months, Bangladesh has been going through changes and vital upheavals across every sector, including its film industry - but here the situation remains jittery with stakeholders facing uncertainty.
The moviegoers, producers and filmmakers, actors, music artists, technical crew members, hall owners, distributors and even journalists are experiencing a difficult time finding out the answer to the question - when exactly the industry will get back to normalcy, in terms of business.
Bangladesh's movie industry has always been fairly Eid- and festival-centric with some occasional exceptions, but this year has been one of the toughest years for the industry in general. Dhallywood megastar Shakib Khan starrer 'Toofan' was a commercial triumph on Qurbani Eid; however, as the protest began to demand reform of quotas in government jobs which led to the ouster of the Hasina regime, Dhaka's cinema came to a halt due to the unrest.
Film shooting and screening came to a standstill during this period of political turmoil and regime changes, and several cineplexes and cinema halls in the country were also vandalized on August 5, as an aftermath of the overall situation.
Then, after the formation of the interim government, the plan to bring significant changes in the country's film industry began, starting from the formation of the Film Certification Board by disbanding the long-standing Censor Board, and several other committees were also formed right after that.
This includes seven newly announced committees - the Full-Length Film Grant Committee, the Short-Film Grant Committee, the Script Selection Committees for Full-Length and Short-Film Grant, the Sub-Committees for the Full-Length and Short-Film Grant, and the Film Certification Appeal Committee.
However, after the change in the political landscape of the country, the film sector has practically come to a standstill, so the producers are not daring to invest money at this time. Due to this, many artists and technicians are currently unemployed and are in an unbearable economic crisis.
The cinema hall owners and multiplexes are also suffering due to this stagnated situation without appealing Bangla films and therefore, the lack of audiences. From single screens to multiplexes, long ticket queues were seen for Bangladeshi films over the past few years for films like ‘Poran’, ‘Hawa’, Surongo’, ‘Priyotoma’, ‘Rajkumar’ and more - which were commercially successful, according to the theatres and hall owners.
However, without the absence of quality Bangladeshi films in the last couple of months, the multiplexes have been running foreign movies. Some of the halls and theatres have fully stopped showcasing films, such as the Roots Cineclub in Sirajganj.
The changing landscape also poses a threat - it raises the question of adequate audience turnover at theatres.
Regarding this, film critic, screenwriter, and journalist Sadia Khalid Reeti, told UNB: “To bring audiences back to the theatres, we need to work on a holistic approach to mend the cinema ecosystem in Bangladesh. There are too many roadblocks in the form of ineffective regulations and corruption, but we are hopeful that this is the right time for reform.”
A member of the recently announced National Film Grant Selection Committee and National Film Advisory Committee, Reeti added: “Starting from being more particular about which films receive national film grants to establishing a central e-ticketing system to ensure all stakeholders get their fair share of revenue - our industry needs a total makeover.”
The upcoming big theatrical release, through which the industry is eyeing to witness the rush of moviegoers in the theatres, is Dhallywood megastar Shakib Khan's first-ever pan-India film ‘Dorod’ (‘Dard’ in Hindi). The Anonno Mamun-directed film is set to be released in Bangladesh on 15 November 15 and is also set to be released in 20 countries across the world.
4 days ago