Several posts of both high and low levels in these two government establishments have remained vacant for several years, forcing the existing employees to turn people away as they are unable to properly deliver.

At least 20 posts, out of 40, in Bishwanath Upazila Agriculture office remained vacant, while 44, out of 154, in the 50-bed Upazila Health Complex, according to insiders.

Posts of two Agriculture Extension officers, one Assistant Agriculture Extension officer, 14 Deputy Assistant Agriculture officers, one office assistant-cum-computer operator, one office assistant and one security guard are vacant in Bishwanath Upazila Agriculture Office, the sources said.

Local farmers alleged that they do not get proper advice about farming process and others agriculture-related issues for lack of officers in the office.

Acknowledging the manpower crisis, newly appointed agricultural officer Ramjan Ali told UNB that he will inform the higher authorities about it.

Similarly, locals said, an acute crisis of manpower in Bishwanath Upazila Health Complex has crippled medical facilities for quite a long time, which is saddled with irregularities.

They said this is a common scenario that the doctors and other staff at the health complex are always overworked due to the overflow of patients.      

According to sources at Upazila Health and Family Planning office, at least 44 posts, include that of residential medical officers, assistant nurses, statisticians, cashiers, storekeepers, gardeners, chefs and many others are vacant.

Dr Abdur Rahman, Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer of Bishwanath, said higher officials are being reported each month regarding the manpower crisis but no initiative has been taken yet.